While Saturday mornings usually call for extra snoozing, the natural beauty on my way to the lake made my early rise worthwhile.
It was one of those perfect, crisp summer mornings where the temperature was just right before the onset of a scorching day. The sunlight bathed everything in a golden hue, birds were chirping and a gentle breeze set the tone for a run.
People were gradually arriving; some happily chatted, while others focused on their warm-ups.
A friendly volunteer held a sign reading “first-timers”, prompting me to approach her for insights; she graciously told me what to expect.
Event director Chelsea Nicholson was present, and I got to ask her a few questions.
Having begun a decade ago, Shepparton Parkrun boasts an average attendance of 200 to 250 participants, with a record high of 382 attendees.
Chelsea, who has been involved for nine years, proudly highlighted its status as the largest regional Parkrun in Victoria.
She said it offered plenty of volunteering opportunities for people keen to get involved.
“The social nature of the run makes people keep coming back,” Chelsea said.
The event is open to all — families, friends and newcomers — regardless of ability or fitness level, and it even accommodates four-legged companions. (They must be on a leash.)
The anticipation was mounting. A volunteer extended a warm welcome, and runners achieving milestones that day were met with applause.
Then came the moment to line up at the starting point, and off we went!
I am not going to lie — the first kilometre was a challenge: my body acutely felt the effects of the long hiatus, and my lungs, every cigarette I had indulged in.
I was thinking of my bed, wondering why I was doing this.
But behind all the racing thoughts, my body slowly remembered what to do. Each breath was now taken consciously, one step after the other, anchoring me in the present moment — it was exactly what I needed.
The setting could not have been any better. Being in nature to train is always relaxing. Young volunteers were cheering us as we ran; such a nice little boost.
Then it was all done.
As the run concluded, and I settled on the grass, perspiring but relieved, it dawned on me: it wasn’t nearly as daunting as I had imagined.
Sure, when you are running, all you can think of is crossing the finish line, but the post-exercise euphoria was a sensation I had sorely missed.
As people finished at their own pace, groups formed on the grass, and conversations were buzzing.
I had the pleasure of meeting Sandra Pozzobon and her son Daniel from Kialla, who regularly attend together.
“You can find any excuse in the world not to get out of bed, but the positive impact exercising has on your wellbeing is worthwhile,” Sandra said.
I treated myself to a well-deserved coffee from Shepparton Art Museum’s café afterwards, and as cliché as this may sound, taking part in Parkrun was the best way to start the weekend.
I felt energised throughout the day and in a great mood.
I recommend Parkrun to everyone — if running isn’t your thing, you can walk the loop. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, and it’s an excellent way to be active while meeting new people.
Stay tuned for part four of the fitness journey!
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