The organisers of free Parkrun events around the North East want to encourage people to take part by walking the 5km route.
There are weekly 5km Parkruns on Saturdays around the world, which are free to enter. In the Newcastle and Sunderland area alone, there are runs on the Town Moor, Leazes Park, Jesmond Dene, Rising Sun Park, Gateshead, Windy Nook, Whitley Bay, South Shields, Blyth, Herrington Country Park, Silksworth and Chopwell Wood.
You may be unsure if you can run for 5km, but Parkrun stresses that people taking part can run, jog or walk and every participant is welcomed with "open arms".
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In October, to mark its 18th birthday, Parkrun wants to encourage new people to come to its events and walk the 5km course through its Parkwalk campaign.
Parkrun says: "Walking is a great way of soaking up the Parkrun atmosphere, getting the opportunity to chat to people, being active and is something that whole families or friendship groups can do together. It’s also one of the best entry points into Parkrun, especially for those who may be taking their first steps towards healthier and happier lifestyles.
"You can walk at any pace, alone or with others. You could bring a dog or a buggy and even use walking poles if you have them."
Do not worry about quickly completing the course, Parkrun says, as each event has a dedicated "tail walker" who is the person at the back who always finishes last, which is done to encourage walkers to take part.
Parkrun adds: "Walking can help you manage or prevent health conditions, enhance your mood, boost fitness and bring you into contact with some amazing places and people.
Through the Parkwalk at Parkrun campaign we would like to encourage more people to experience the joy and incredible benefits of walking at Parkrun. Not just in October, but always."
To join a Parkrun, sign up for free online. You will then get a barcode you can use at the event.
Head to https://www.parkrun.org.uk/
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