Ben from Saint Petersburg

About me I love exploring the city and discovering new things - whether it be plaques to famous people, literary characters or new places to eat and drink. Although I have lived here since 2012, it never ceases to surprise me. One good way to explore the city is running - I am a regular at local running events. Why Saint Petersburg I love the fact that history is everywher...

Feb 3, 2025

Yelagin Island Parkrun Saint Petersburg

Saturday morning fitness

"The "Yelagin Island Parkrun" in Saint Petersburg is a 5k run that takes place very Saturday morning, as is tradition in the movement. It's not a race!"

It is quite likely that nearly everyone has heard of, or even taken part in a parkrun at some point or other. Basically every Saturday morning, in locations around the world, runners come together to run 5k at whatever speed they feel like - slow or fast. This is a community event rather than a competition, so everyone is cheerful, supportive and positive.

The parkrun movement is becoming ever more popular in Russia, and St Petersburg is no exception - there are 8 events in and around the city (including Peterhof and Gatchina). My favourite is Yelagin Island. This traffic-free island is a haven for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers (just try to not see a squirrel!) and has a special place in my heart, as it is where I first met up to train with other runners in the city and made some great friends.

Parkrun is in theory a run, not a race. There's little harm in trying your fitness and running around the park with like-minded runners. During summer months I frequently spot holiday-makers in running gear looking a little bit lost on the metro and help them to find the start (which isn't easy).

The volunteers and runners do their best to make everyone welcome, and it's a great way to kickstart the weekend. On a number of times, I have received the 0007 stripcode at the finish. Always makes me laugh anyway...

Evidence of recent PCR test or vaccination certificate required.

Relaxing

About this spot

Primorskiy Prospekt

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