Weekly park jogs boosts mood, wellbeing and health

WE know that exercise can be good for our mental health.

- BY KEITH FALKINER

It's why tens of thousands of people have signed up for runs in their local parks, as part of the popular parkrun initiative, right around the country.

New survey results released by parkrun Ireland on World Mental Health Day reveals the profound impact that regular participation at parkrun has on mental health and overall wellbeing.

According to the parkrun Ireland Health and Well-being Survey 2025, conducted in collaboration with the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre at Sheffield Hallam University, an overwhelming majority of participants reported positive effects on their mental wellbeing, including improvements in mood, stress levels, and social connection.

According to the survey:

92% reported an improved sense of personal achievement

87% reported increased happiness

85% reported improved mental wellbeing, and

71% reported improved confidence.