It’s official – Park Run fever is sweeping the UK like never before. Over the past decade, participation in these free weekly 5K runs has skyrocketed by almost 200%, with more than 182,000 people now lacing up their trainers each weekend across nearly 800 locations.
What started as a small, community-led initiative has grown into one of the most uplifting movements in British fitness. Whether you’re chasing a new personal best, jogging with a friend, or enjoying a Saturday morning walk-jog hybrid, Park Run is for everyone. No stopwatch pressure. No entry fee. Just movement, outdoors, and a sea of friendly faces cheering you on.
Why We’re All Running to the Park
The stats say it all:
- 2015: 62,000 runners at 336 events, with 5,600 volunteers
- 2025: 182,000 runners at 788 events, supported by over 19,000 volunteers
That’s a 190% increase in runners and a 243% increase in volunteers – and it’s still growing year on year. Clearly, Park Run isn’t just a fad; it’s a fixture in the nation’s wellbeing calendar.
The beauty of Park Run lies in its accessibility. You don’t need to be a seasoned runner, you just need a pair of trainers and a willingness to join in. It’s a celebration of health, inclusivity, and the simple joy of moving your body.
But… Are Your Feet Ready?
At The Feets, we love seeing more people discover the magic of running. But we also know that with every extra kilometre comes extra demand on your feet – the very foundation of every stride.
Here’s the thing: footcare isn’t just about fixing blisters after they happen. It’s about prevention, so those little niggles don’t turn into big problems that stop you running altogether. Neglecting your feet can cause you to change your running form, which in turn increases your risk of sprains, pulls, and even fractures.
Park Run has brought running into the heart of our communities, and that’s extraordinary. But whether you’re aiming for a PB or simply enjoying the fresh air with friends, your feet need care. Happy, healthy feet mean you can run stronger, recover faster, and keep the joy alive week after week.
Our Top Footcare Tips for Park Runners
- Check Your Shoes – Make sure your trainers offer the right support and aren’t worn out.
- Moisturise Daily – Healthy skin is more resilient against blisters and cracks.
- Keep Feet Dry – Use breathable socks and powders to reduce friction and prevent athlete’s foot.
- Listen to Pain Signals – Don’t run through avoidable injuries; treat early to stay in the game.
- Stretch and Strengthen – Don’t forget your toes and arches – they work just as hard as your legs.
One Happy Step at a Time
The Park Run boom is proof that community, consistency, and a love of movement can transform lives. We’re here to make sure that transformation is pain-free, blister-free, and filled with as many happy steps as possible.
So this summer, as you join the crowds in your local park, give a thought to your hardest-working running partners: your feet. Treat them well, from natural muscle rub to athlete's foot powder, and they’ll carry you through every finish line – and every coffee-and-chat afterwards – with a smile.
Data tables and sources
