In a groundbreaking effort to understand the impact of junior parkrun on young participants, the results of junior parkrun's first Health and Wellbeing Survey revealed that three out of four children reported feeling happy when they participated in junior parkrun.

In April 2024, the first Health and Wellbeing Survey was conducted for junior parkrun, asking over 1,800 families across the UK to share their experiences. Its findings highlight the positive effects of junior parkrun on the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of the young people who kick-start their Sundays at the 2k community event every week.

This survey is also a part of a broader initiative supported by the London Marathon Foundation and led by Dr Helen Quirk, an Embedded Researcher with parkrun and a Research Fellow in physical activity and public health at the University of Sheffield. Key highlights showcase a profoundly positive experience for participants:

85% of parents and caregivers report that junior parkrun has had a positive impact on their child's self esteem.

77% of parents said their child was 'proud of themselves' the last time they went to junior parkrun.

Three out of four children expressed happiness and 65% felt proud at their local junior parkrun events.

96% of families plan to continue going to junior parkrun.

Two in three parents reported improvements in their child's physical activity levels and enjoyment of physical activities

More than half of parents and caregivers report their child has walked, jogged and run outside of junior parkrun as a result.

Dr. Quirk says: "I'm thrilled to be working with parkrun on this exciting, ambitious and important research. We're using this project to shine a light on junior parkrun's potential, to understand how we can reach more people and especially those who could benefit the most from taking part."

The survey not only emphasised the emotional benefits but also shed light on the impact of junior parkrun on health and personal development. 85% of parents noted a positive enhancement in their child's self-esteem, attributing it to the supportive nature of junior parkrun. Additionally, parents reported improvements in their child's physical activity levels and enjoyment of physical activities, alongside the development of vital life skills such as resilience and goal-setting.

James Thomas, parkrun UK Health & Wellbeing Manager, shared: "The simple act of walking, running or volunteering in the outdoors on a Sunday morning is changing lives and we are grateful to the London Marathon Foundation for their support in helping us grow and develop junior parkrun. In the coming years, we hope as many people as possible join us to witness the benefits themselves and experience the joy of junior parkrun."

With an overwhelming majority of respondents expressing their intent to continue participating, the survey highlights junior parkrun's appeal and its impact on children, families, and communities. This influence extends beyond children, reaching other family members and the wider local community.

Notably, 60% of families report feeling a stronger sense of connection to their community, while nearly half have seen an improvement in family bonding. One respondent states: "It has made a huge difference to my health and motivated me to get back to running after decades, so that I can run with my son without struggling." As junior parkrun continues to promote a culture of positivity, inclusivity, and healthy lifestyle choices, we're ready to inspire future generations, enriching lives and strengthening community bonds along the way.