Sport has the power to change lives. It improves our health, boosts our wellbeing and brings communities together. Yet for many people from South Asian communities, taking that first step into sport or physical activity can still feel like the hardest part.

That is why, the Asian Sports Foundation (ASF) is proud to be partnering with parkrun.

Our mission at ASF is simple: to make sport and physical activity more accessible, inclusive and representative of the communities we serve. Through this collaboration, we hope to introduce more people from Asian communities to parkrun and help them see what thousands across the UK already know: parkrun is for everyone.(1)

 ‍

More Than a Run

Every Saturday morning, parks across the UK come alive as people of all ages and abilities gather for parkrun. Some run, some jog, some walk, and many volunteer. There is no competition, no pressure and no time limit.(2)

Whether you complete the5k in 20 minutes or take an hour to walk it with family and friends, you arepart of the same welcoming community.

For many people, joining something new can feel intimidating. Sometimes it's a lack of awareness. Sometimes it's not knowing anyone who takes part. And sometimes it's simply not seeing people who look like you in those spaces.

We want to help change that.

Breaking Down Barriers

South Asian communities continue to face significant health inequalities, including higher rates of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve both physical and mental wellbeing, yet participation levels often remain lower than the national average. (3)

By working together with parkrun, we're aiming to raise awareness, improve visibility and encourage more first-time participants from South Asian backgrounds to get involved.

This is not just about exercise. It's about creating opportunities for families, friends and communities to connect, spend time outdoors and build healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

A Story of Belonging

Raheema Mamodo knows exactly how powerful that first step can be.

"My first parkrun experience was for my graduation run at the end of Couch to 5K. I had no idea what to expect when our run leader suggested we attend. It was the first Saturday of the new year and it was busy. I was surprised at how many people had turned up on a Saturday morning.

Although it felt overwhelming being surrounded by runners, I felt welcomed straight away and loved all the cheering from fellow participants. I felt like I belonged in that space too and have carried on attending parkrun since that first event over seven years ago.

I recently achieved my 250 milestone, which I'm incredibly proud of. I would recommend parkrun to anyone, especially the South Asian community. The parkrun community is inclusive and welcoming to all, whether you want to run, walk or volunteer."

Raheema's journey shows what can happen when people feel welcomed,supported and included from day one.

Take Your First Step

As we celebrate South Asian Heritage Month with the rich contributions of communities across the UK.I t is also an opportunity to create positive change for the future.

By increasing awareness and participation in parkrun, we hope to inspire more people to take that first step towards a healthier, more active and more connected life.

You don't need expensive kit.

You don't need to be fit.

You don't even need to run.

You just need to start.

And at ASF, we're here to help you take that first step.

This month, why not give parkrun a try? Come with friends, bring your family or simply turn up on your own. You'll be welcomed from the moment you arrive.

Together, we can build healthier, more active and more connected communities, one Saturday morning at a time.

Reference links

(1). www.asiansportsfoundation.org

(2) www.Parkrun.co.uk

(3). https://www.ethnicity-facts-figures.service.gov.uk/health/diet-and-exercise/physical-activity/latest/

https://www.sportengland.org/research-and-data/data/active-lives

‍