Where the Pavement Ends: Why Runners Need Parks (and Why Companies Should Care)

Picture this: sunrise filtering through the trees, feet hitting the trail in rhythm, breath in sync with the wind. There is a reason so many runners prefer parks over treadmills or traffic-heavy roads. It is not just about mileage, it’s about mental clarity, connection to nature, and safe, consistent access to movement.

For companies that promote health and wellness, whether through apparel, programming, or philanthropic giving, there is a powerful opportunity here. Supporting the creation or improvement of running-friendly parks is not just a nice-to-have community gesture. It is a long-term investment in the physical and mental health of the people you serve.

Why Runners Love Parks

According to the National Recreation and Park Association, more than 60% of runners prefer park trails over streets or sidewalks, citing safety, scenery, and air quality as top reasons. Parks provide a soft surface for joints, a break from urban stress, and a built-in sense of community. You are not just running past strangers; you are moving alongside neighbors.

Well-designed green spaces can support:

• - Looped trails for distance tracking
• - Wayfinding signage for accessibility
• - Shaded rest areas for recovery
• - Outdoor fitness stations for cross-training

For brands or employers who cater to an active customer or employee base, these amenities are not just perks, they’re proof that you walk (or run) your talk.

The Case for Investing in Runner-Friendly Parks

Let’s connect the dots. You support health. Parks support health. So why not meet in the middle?

Companies that invest in community wellness through running trails, fitness paths, and outdoor programming are not just building places to exercise, they are building trust. You are showing up in your community in a visible, tangible, lasting way. You are giving people a place to move, breathe, and connect and they will remember that.

Studies show that people who live near parks are more likely to meet physical activity guidelines, and neighborhoods with access to trails report higher social cohesion and improved mental health outcomes.

So, What’s the First Step?

Start with a walk, or better yet, a run, through your local parks. Notice what is missing. Imagine what could be. Then reach out.

At IMPACT Parks, we help companies turn their values into real-life gathering places for movement, wellness, and community. Let’s build something that supports your brand’s mission and gives runners a place to thrive.