Ambassador
“As a GP I’m really passionate about offering alternatives to a normal prescription; I’ve been inviting my patients along to Southport parkrun with me for years now – it’s a fantastic medicine as it works like a dream for mental health, cardiac problems, people wanting to improve their fitness and those who are isolated.
I take part in parkrun most weeks, and have seen countless patients completely change their outlook and behaviours in life as a result of taking part, as well as improving their physical health.
I would recommend other clinicians to refer their patients to parkrun, plus have a go at walking, jogging or running themselves! There is the Royal College of GPs parkrun practice initiative that makes it easy for GP Practices to get involved and creates a real sense of buzz and togetherness when practice staff take part together.”
Find out more about some of the inspiring patient stories through Simon’s parkrun blog, and you can also read a paper that Simon has co-written in the BJGP that highlights the power of physical activity within medicine.
