In a post, of the Australian parkun blog, with the topic ‘We all miss parkrun!’ it is stated that “seasoned parkrunners around the world are missing their Saturday fix”. To assume the ‘fix’ is the same for everybody, would be naïve.
In another post (well worth a read), of the same blog, reasons are presented as to ‘Why parkrun is so successful’. The EAST(ER) framework for behaviour change is used to explain the popularity and success of parkrun, namely:
- Easy
- Attractive
- Social
- Timely
- Enjoyable
- Regulated
The Psychological Continuum Model (PCM) of behavioural change is presented as means to explain why parkrunners generally move from initial awareness to allegiance:
- Awareness
- Attraction
- Attachment
- Allegiance
The social aspect stands out in both the framework and model, namely the opportunity to meet, interact, and ‘feel good’. Many Facebook posts and comments about missing parkrun also reflect such, for example
- parkrun affords the opportunity to mingle with friends, to interact, to mix
- welcomed at, and encouraged (or cheered) by volunteers during
- running alone is lacking motivation and competition
- makes the otherwise dull life great
The topic of a tbd* (time to be determined) community blog post makes a very significant statement, namely ‘it’s only a good event if introverts come too’ (also well worth a read). In the text it is mentioned that introverts dread small talk; dislike it if they cannot control their environment; or if forced to partake in activities they do not feel comfortable with; and if not having time to recharge.
At every parkrun are regulars that merely arrive and blend in; not mingle. Their allegiance differs from the extroverts. They, among others, derive satisfaction from being part of a greater cause.
It is suggested that parkrun core teams take note of tips about how to create introvert-friendly events, such as keeping introverts in-the-know; help them navigate through (for example) a clearly marked parkrun start line; a good first-timers’ briefing outlining the route and ending procedures; and if applicable clear directions where the post-parkrun coffee (and possibly breakfast) gathering is. Contrary to extroverts, introverts do not necessarily ask.
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