Run For Your Life: Green Park Reading Half Marathon and Sport in Mind Unite for Mental Health Awareness Week
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week (13–19 May), the Green Park Reading Half Marathon. is proud to launch its new social campaign, Run For Your Life, in partnership with Sport in Mind, the UK’s leading mental health sports charity.
This campaign highlights the powerful connection between movement and mental wellbeing and encourages people of all abilities to make space for movement in their daily lives – not just for physical fitness, but for their minds too.
Mental health challenges affect 1 in 4 people every year in the UK. In 2022/23 alone, over 5 million people accessed mental health care, and around 1.2 million were left waiting for support. In the face of this growing need, physical activity has emerged as a vital and accessible tool for improving mental wellbeing.
Sport in Mind has helped over 23,000 individuals transform their lives through sport and activity. Their work is evidence-based and life-changing:
· 94% of participants reported improved mental wellbeing
· 91% experienced enhanced self-esteem
· 86% saw reduced stress and anxiety
· 82% had reduced symptoms of depression
· 84% reported improved physical health
These statistics speak for themselves: movement matters – and it can change lives.
Sport in Mind delivers inclusive, free-to-access programs, using sport and physical activity to support those experiencing mental health challenges. From walking and yoga to football and running, their sessions are designed to build confidence, connection, and wellbeing.
"I hadn’t left the house for months. But getting involved with Sport in Mind gave me purpose again. Movement gave me my life back." – Sport in Mind participant
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, our charity partner Sport in Mind has been rolling out a number of inspiring initiatives designed to promote the power of movement for mental wellbeing
From their free 30-minute Lunch & Learn webinar, helping workplaces and schools explore how physical activity supports mental health, to their Wellbeing Walks held across the country on Friday 17th May – they’re making it easier than ever for people to take that first step. And with a brand new permanent HQ opening at The Farmhouse, Campus Reading Business Park later this year, Sport in Mind is doubling down on its commitment to bring accessible, life-changing programs to even more communities across the UK.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re calling on our community to run for something bigger than a medal — run for your mind, your resilience, your future.
Sign-ups for the 2026 race are already off to an incredible start, with thousands of people taking on a new challenge and choosing to prioritize their wellbeing. From first-time runners to seasoned participants, this powerful momentum reflects a growing shift: running isn’t just about pace — it’s about purpose.
Will you join them in 2026?
Here’s how you can take part and show your support:
· Visit www.sportinmind.org for resources and information
· Follow @GreenParkReadingHalf on social media for daily updates and stories
· Share your experiences using #RunForYourLife
Upcoming Events:
· Robin Hood Half Marathon & Mini Marathon – Sunday 28th September 2025
· Green Park Reading Half & Mini Marathon – Sunday 22nd March 2026
