Research shows at least one in five Australians try running at some stage of their lives, making it one of the more popular forms of exercise.
One of the reasons behind its popularity is that it is relatively cheap.
The only essential requirement for running is suitable shoes and space.
Parks, walking tracks, fields, athletic tracks and beaches are all great places to run while getting out into nature or the sunshine.
However, finances are not the only benefit to taking up running.
According to the Better Health Channel, running has numerous benefits, including building bone and muscle strength, burning kilojoules and helping maintain a healthy weight.
Regular running allows participants to avoid issues like coronary artery disease, hypertension and stroke and regular exercise is proven to boost mental health.
With Seymour located in one of the lushest areas of Victoria, residents are spoilt for choice as to where they can run, including the Seymour Multipurpose Trail, Seymour Bushland Reserve and Goulburn Park.
Another benefit to running is that it can be done solo, in pairs or with a group.
All these benefits are well known to Peter Nunn.
The Seymour Goulburn River Trail parkrun event director said the weekly event, which starts up again on Saturday, February 10, at 8am, is incredibly popular with people from all walks of life.
The 5km run, which sees a tapestry of people taking part or volunteering, is aimed at beating one’s personal best while staying healthy and socialising.
“Its a weekly events for personal best and you’ll have those dedicated runners from all over the countryside come to participate in the event,” he said.
“It’s not just a run but also a walk, and you also have people with prams and dogs involved.”
The parkruns are run every week and Mr Nunn said the response from the town had been massive, with about 100 people involved each week.
“(The run) is a good event ... and it’s all about the health and wellbeing of the individual and way to encourage people to become healthier.”
The Seymour Goulburn River Trail parkrun meets at the Lions Park in Manners St, Seymour, on Saturdays at 7.30am.
For information, email goulburnrivertrailseymour@parkrun.com/registration
16°C