Behind the cold, steel bars of a prison cell, Hermen Dange, serving time for drug dealing, found himself yearning for the simple pleasures of life – a breath of fresh air, a walk to the shop. His world shifted when a slip of paper, an invitation to a parkrun event, was slid under his cell door. It was a chance to escape the confines of his 23-hour-a-day confinement and, in a way, to rediscover himself.
That first parkrun in 2018 at HMP Hindley, near Wigan, was a turning point for Hermen. While he had never been a runner since his school days, he found himself drawn to the event, a chance to break free from the monotony of prison life. Remarkably, despite his lack of preparation, he came third in the race, a testament to his inherent spirit.
The parkrun, organized by the prison’s physical education instructors and supported by inmates and volunteers, mirrored the spirit of regular parkruns, a celebration of community and fitness, albeit within the confines of the prison grounds. Hermen was struck by the positive energy, the encouragement, and the feeling of camaraderie he had never experienced within the prison walls.
That first parkrun was just the beginning. Hermen found himself eagerly anticipating each weekly event, and as he ran, he felt the weight of his past fade away. He began to prioritize his fitness, to read more, and to cultivate a more positive outlook on life. Running became a refuge, a way to escape the daily pressures of prison and to regain control of his life.
The transformative power of parkrun is not limited to Hermen’s story. The first prison-based parkrun launched at HMP Haverigg seven years ago, thanks to the vision of supervising officer Shane Spencer. Inspired by the local parkrun movement, Shane saw an opportunity to bring the same sense of community and fitness to the inmates. His proposal was approved, and the parkrun has since expanded to 30 other prisons across England and Wales.
At Haverigg, the parkrun has become a weekly ritual, drawing a consistent group of 25 runners. The benefits are undeniable, leading to improvements in fitness, weight loss, and most importantly, mental well-being. Former inmate Alfy Kirkley credits parkrun with saving his life. He was struggling with addiction and suicidal thoughts until Shane and his colleagues intervened, introducing him to the parkrun program. Alfy’s transformation was remarkable; he emerged from his isolation, rediscovered his health, and found a new sense of purpose. He even participated in a parkrun with his daughter after his release, a powerful symbol of his newfound hope and resilience.
Parkrun is not just about physical activity; it’s about fostering a sense of community, providing structure, and offering a path to rehabilitation. Professor Rosie Meek, a researcher studying the role of sport in prison, emphasizes the positive impact of parkrun on inmates’ self-esteem, motivation, and mental health. She has witnessed firsthand how parkrun can be a catalyst for positive change, helping inmates break free from addiction, improve their physical health, and regain a sense of human connection. It’s a stark contrast to the bleak reality of prison life, offering inmates a glimmer of hope and a chance to rebuild their lives.
For many inmates, parkrun is the first step towards a healthier lifestyle. It’s an opportunity to break free from the cycle of crime, addiction, and unhealthy habits. But the benefits extend far beyond the prison walls. The experience of running together, of finding support and encouragement, can provide a foundation for a positive and fulfilling life on the outside.
Hermen Dange’s journey is a testament to the power of parkrun. He credits the program with turning his life around, giving him a sense of purpose, a career, and a community. His story is an inspiration, showcasing how running can be a powerful force for good, not only within the confines of a prison but also in the wider world.
As Hermen continues to advocate for healthy living and rehabilitation, parkrun stands as a beacon of hope, proving that even behind prison walls, the human spirit can thrive.
