Parkrun making a difference for lonely Territorians

WHILE a good excuse to get some fresh air and have a workout, going for a run can often be a lonely activity but Parkrun is changing the way Territorians exercise

Dean Laughton (in the red singlet) says he tries to get to Parkrun every week. Picture: GLENN CAMPBELL

WHILE a good excuse to get some fresh air and have a workout, going for a run can often be a lonely activity but Parkrun is changing the way Territorians exercise.

After a national survey showed 54 per cent of all Australians rarely or never felt lonely, Parkrun Asia Pacific strategic director Tim Oberg said loneliness was a serious issue which needed to be addressed.

MORE STORIES

UNLIMITED internet access rolled out across CBD

DARWIN citizen, young citizen and community event of the year announced

VARIETY NT Australia Day Ute run

“Despite society being more connected than ever before, loneliness is clearly a

significant issue in Australia,” he said.

“For many Parkrun participants it’s not about the running, it’s more a feeling of belonging, the joy of making new friends and having fun outdoors.”

Mr Oberg said Parkrun is the ideal solution for those feeling a little lonely, particularly coming into the new year.

Runner Dean Laughton said while he enjoys the running aspect, it’s a chance for him and his friends to catch up outside of the working week.

NT NEWS special half price subscription deal: Just $3.50 a week*

“It’s common knowledge that physical activity improves your mental wellbeing,” he said.

“From a social aspect, Parkrun creates a sense of community, fulfilling individual social needs in what otherwise is a solo sport … (it creates) that healthy competition with your mates.”