Last year, the creators behind National Fitness Day launched a campaign entitled ‘Fitness Unites Us’. The theme has continued into this year after it inspired more than 22.7 million people across the UK to get active together. Community is powerful, which is demonstrated by organisations like parkrun as an example of inclusive activity.

What is community walking?

True to its name, community walking is all about meeting with residents in your local area to go for a social walk. Councils, for one, are investing funds into walking initiatives to help more people get active together. This form of funding is supporting noteworthy projects like Walk and Talk and Walking in Your Community.

What are the benefits of community walking?

The most prominent benefit to gain from community walking is making connections. Getting involved with a walking group is an excellent way to meet new people and build friendships. Moreover, participating in social walking inspires a sense of purpose. This can be done by setting group physical goals, such as walking a certain distance. Accomplishing that goal, in turn, increases self-confidence and releases those feel-good endorphins.

How can you get involved with community running?

There’s nothing like going for a walk, jog, or a run with others around to cheer you on. Events like parkrun are the perfect way to take care of your mental wellbeing whilst making meaningful connections with new like-minded people.

Since being founded by Paul Sinton-Hewitt in 2004, parkrun has become a phenomenal active movement worldwide. parkrun events offer a positive, welcoming, and inclusive experience where you can go at your own pace, and you don’t have to worry about reaching the finish line. If you're curious about joining, you can find a parkrun event in your local area here: https://www.parkrun.org.uk/events

Staying hydrated, together

iPRO Hydrate is the go-to hydration drink for active communities across the nation and the preferred hydration partner for organisations like parkrun. iPRO Hydrate comes in four invigorating flavours: Berry Mix, Orange & Pineapple, Citrus, and Mango. The drink also contains 100% daily vitamin C and immunity-boosting B vitamins that are beneficial to your energy levels and overall physical health.

“A fellow parkrun friend recommended iPRO to me for keeping nicely hydrated. Now I drink a bottle whenever I go running as a healthy alternative to sugary sports drinks. The fruity flavours are delicious and really refreshing. I’m conscious about the negative health effects of added sugar so I avoid high sugar drinks. iPRO provides me with the perfect balance of vitamins, minerals, and plant-based sweetness that I need. I’ve enhanced my daily hydration routine by having iPRO stocked in my fridge, even when I’m not going for a run!” Katie Hine, parkrun runner from Devon.