So you’ve decided to give parkrun a go.
Fantastic.
You’ve already completed the hardest step: deciding to show up.
Now there’s just one thing you need to do before attending your first event.
You need to register and obtain your barcode.
The good news is that the process is completely free and only takes a few minutes.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know so you can arrive at your first parkrun feeling prepared and confident.
Do You Need to Register for parkrun?
Yes.
Unlike many organised running events, parkrun doesn’t require an entry fee, but participants do need to register before taking part.
Registration allows parkrun to:
- Record your finish time
- Track your participation history
- Provide age grading statistics
- Send your results
- Store emergency contact details
The best part?
You only need to register once.
After that, you can use the same barcode at any parkrun event around the world.
Whether you’re in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, South Africa, or elsewhere, your barcode works everywhere.
Is Registration Free?
Absolutely.
parkrun has always been free.
There are:
- No entry fees
- No annual memberships
- No hidden charges
Simply register once and participate as often as you’d like.
This is one of the reasons parkrun has become one of the largest fitness communities in the world.
How to Register for parkrun
The registration process is straightforward.
Step 1: Visit the parkrun Registration Page
Head to the official parkrun website and click on Register.
https://www.parkrun.co.nz/register
You’ll be asked to provide:
- First name
- Last name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Email address
- Country of residence
Step 2: Add an Emergency Contact
One of the most important parts of registration is adding an emergency contact.
This person can be contacted if you become unwell or require assistance during an event.
Make sure this information is accurate and up to date.
Step 3: Confirm Your Registration
Once completed, you’ll receive your unique parkrun ID.
Congratulations.
You’re officially registered.
Free Download: The First-Time parkrun Checklist
Want to make sure you’re fully prepared for your first parkrun?
Download my FREE First-Time parkrun Checklist and discover:
✓ How to register and get your barcode
✓ What to bring on Saturday morning
✓ What happens before, during, and after the event
✓ Common first-timer mistakes to avoid
✓ How to feel confident before your first parkrun
👉 Download your free copy below.
What Is a parkrun Barcode?
Your barcode is your personal identification code within the parkrun system.
Every participant receives a unique barcode.
After completing a parkrun, volunteers scan:
- Your finish token
- Your personal barcode
This links your finish position to your registration profile.
Without a barcode, your result cannot be recorded.
This is why you’ll often hear experienced parkrunners say:
“No Barcode, No Result.”
What Happens If I Forget My Barcode?
You can still participate.
You can still complete the course.
You can still enjoy the experience.
However, your result won’t be recorded.
Many people forget their barcode at least once.
Don’t panic if it happens.
Simply enjoy the event and remember it next time.
What Are My Barcode Options?
Most participants start with a simple electronic barcode on the parkrun app.
However, there are several options available.
Phone Barcode
Phone Barcode
You can use an electronic version of your barcode on your smartphone.
Simply save your barcode to your phone and present it for scanning after you finish.
Many participants choose to:
- Save a screenshot of their barcode
- Store it in their phone’s parkrun app
- Keep a copy in their photos
Even though electronic barcodes are accepted, it’s still a good idea to make sure your phone is charged before leaving home on Saturday morning.
Paper Barcode
The simplest option.
Print it and bring it with you.
Many participants laminate it to make it more durable.
Key Tag
A small plastic barcode that attaches to your keys.
Popular among regular participants.
Wristband
A wearable barcode that also includes emergency contact information.
Many experienced parkrunners prefer this option.
Finding Your Nearest parkrun
Once registered, your next step is choosing an event.
Most people start with their nearest parkrun.
When selecting an event, consider:
- Travel distance
- Course terrain
- Parking availability
- Public toilets
- Start location
Every event has its own webpage containing course maps, directions, and important information.
Take a few minutes to review the details before attending.
Quick Tip
Check the event page on Friday evening or Saturday morning before travelling.
Occasionally events are cancelled due to weather, maintenance, or other circumstances.
Understanding Your Results
After your first parkrun, you’ll receive an email with your result.
This includes:
- Finish time
- Overall position
- Gender position
- Age grading percentage
- Personal best information
- Total number of parkruns completed
Don’t worry too much about these numbers initially.
For your first event, simply focus on enjoying the experience.
The statistics become more meaningful as you participate regularly.
Common Questions New parkrunners Ask
Do I Need to Register Every Week?
No.
Register once.
Use your barcode forever.
Can I Use My Barcode Anywhere?
Yes.
Your barcode works at parkrun events worldwide.
Can I Register My Children?
Yes.
Children can have their own barcode and participation record.
Can I Walk?
Absolutely.
Walkers are welcome at every parkrun.
What If I’m Slow?
It doesn’t matter.
parkrun welcomes participants of all abilities.
Ready for Saturday Morning?
Once you’ve registered and obtained your barcode, you’re almost ready for your first parkrun.
The next question most people ask is:
“What should I actually do before my first event?”
That’s exactly what we’ll cover in the next article, where I’ll walk you through what to wear, what to bring, when to arrive, and how to feel confident before your first Saturday morning.
Make Your First parkrun Easier
If you’ve registered for parkrun and want to make sure nothing catches you by surprise, I’ve created a free resource to help.
Get the FREE First-Time parkrun Checklist
Inside you’ll discover:
✓ Registration and barcode tips
✓ What to wear
✓ What to bring
✓ When to arrive
✓ What happens before, during, and after the event
✓ Common first-timer mistakes to avoid
✓ How to feel confident on the start line
Thousands of people attend their first parkrun every week.
This checklist will help you arrive feeling prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy the experience.
Download your free copy below.
First parkrun coming up?
Download the FREE First-Time parkrun Checklist and remove the guesswork before Saturday morning.