Buncrana doctor extols health benefits of parkrun on ninth anniversary

A Buncrana doctor prescribes parkrun to his patients because he sees huge improvements when people are active in reducing their blood pressure, helping their sleep, helping their energy and helping control their weight.

Dr Paul van Dessel spoke on the benefits of parkrun to health, saying “being active, including running, has a huge amount of benefits to chronic disease such as reducing the risk of heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and osteoporosis. It also can really help one’s mental health and can help combat the effects of depression as well as reducing the feelings of stress and anxiety in one’s life”.

Parkrun is a popular and free 5k event for walkers, runners and volunteers that takes place every Saturday morning throughout the year. Starting at 9.15am at Buncrana shorefront, everyone is welcome to complete the 5k at their own pace. Families, dogs, and buggies are all welcome, and disability is no barrier.

Buncrana parkrun was set up nine years ago in September 2017 and has gone from strength to strength. More than 50 locals and visitors alike, now complete the 5k every week, supported by a team of dedicated volunteers.

Adenike Anifawose said: “As an Asylum Seeker, parkrun has been a very important part of my life over the last few years. It has given me much more than the opportunity to walk or run, it has helped me stay physically active, improve my mental wellbeing, build friendships and feel welcomed and connected to the local community.

READ NEXT: Donegal groups on RiSE journey through €3.97m Peaceplus Project

“Having a regular parkrun to look forward to has given me a sense of routine, belonging and positivity.

“I would encourage everyone regardless of age or fitness level, to take advantage of opportunities like parkrun and regular exercise. It will help improve their physical health, reduce stress, boost their mood and help connect with others.”

One of the earliest participants, John Mulhern, said: “Parkrun has meant different things to me since it commenced in Buncrana. Initially, I joined with my family as a social event we could all do together. Then, I went through a phase when I used it to improve my fitness, culminating in the Dublin marathon. However, now I see it as a positive way to start the weekend out in nature, walking or volunteering, both of which benefit me and the community. Knowing that I am connecting with others from all walks of life and also giving back in volunteering to an event that has given so much to me.”

To join Buncrana parkrun, simply turn up at the shore front play park at 9am on any Saturday morning and speak to one of the volunteers who will be happy to help, or to find out more, go to www.parkrun.ie.

On Saturday, September 12, as well as celebrating the ninth anniversary, a new six week programme called ‘Couch to parkrun’ will be launched. Just what the doctor ordered!