Every Saturday morning parkrun events are presented all over the world. It is a free event of 5 km, where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. There is no time limit and no one finishes last.
Follow these tips from parkrun to make parkrunning under the summer sun a breeze:
- Dress for the weather. Wearing the right clothes will prevent overheating in the sun. Light, sweat-wicking clothing keeps you cool by drawing moisture and sweat away from the body. Wear a hat to keep your head cool.
- Change your approach towards completing a parkrun. If walking transitions into jogging, try to maintain a reasonable pace. If you start feeling too hot, slow down or stop for a break. While it may not be pushing yourself to the limit or setting a new personal best, the beauty of parkrun lies in the fact that there is always next week.
- Fuel up. A light, easily digestible meal or snack early morning before parkrun will help provide the needed energy.
- Stay hydrated. Bring water along and drink when you feel thirsty.
- Listen to your body. Pay attention to how your body responds to the sun and the accompanying heat. If you start feeling really tired or dizzy, take a break and find shade.
An event near you
In Kimberley, parkrun commences at 07:00 at the Rooifontein Game Farm. It is also presented in Aggeneys, Christiana, Jacobsdal, Kathu, Upington, and Springbok.
Visit parkrun.co.za to find a location near you.
Fun facts
The previous weekend at parkrun, across the globe, there were 1 954 events; 201 924 walkers, joggers and runners; 31 247 volunteers; 7 635 first-timers; and 21 044 personal best times.
