My wife and I approach Parkrun very differently. Laura’s priority is conversation rather than competition. For her, an event that passes without chatting to at least someone on the 5km route is a disappointment. As for me, I don’t enjoy talking whilst running and, if there’s any frustration, it’s from not bettering a previous time or, worst of all, someone pipping me at the finish.

This article appeared on the PREACH blog in September 2025. To read the full piece, click here.