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Prescribing parkruns not pills: new ways to improve post-pandemic health

A Parkrun event at Rouse Hill in Sydney

A Parkrun event at Rouse Hill in Sydney. Source: AAP

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners [RACGP] has partnered with non-profit Parkrun Australia to support GPs across the nation in addressing a rise in chronic illness.


The lengthy lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic have led to bad habits, with health consequences.

Official government statistics show inactivity accounts for about 6 percent of all cancers, second only to tobacco smoking.

Today many GPs are recommending their patients to attend the Parkrun - it's a free weekly community running event held around the world.

There are five-kilometer runs on Saturdays, and two-kilometer runs on Sundays.

But many simply go for social engagement, or to donate their time.

Free community exercise initiatives like Parkrun are especially important for those who may not be able to afford more expensive wellness activities.


 


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