One fun workout with coach, author, and TV presenter Joe Wicks is enough to have all of Peterborough buzzing. The fitness coach inspired a record-breaking Peterborough parkrun. His movement motivated 1,205 runners to lace up their running shoes on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

Best known as “The Body Coach,” he inspired millions of people through his workout videos, online fitness programs, and healthy recipes.

“It was incredible, not just because of the number of people who turned up, but because of the mix of ages and abilities getting involved together,” Wicks commented on the success of the event.

The Peterborough event, one of the six events to be held in 2026, was the biggest one to date. Held at Ferry Meadows, the event is part of a global parkrun movement. The primary goal of the event is to make fitness inclusive, free, and easily accessible to all.

"You don’t have to be a runner to take part – it’s about getting outside, moving your body and being part of your local community,” Wicks stated, as per Peterborough Today.

A community-led 5K event, parkrun began in London in 2004 and has since grown into a global fitness movement. It takes place every Saturday at 9:00 a.m. in Wales and England and has no time limit or prize.

1,205 runners represents a 140% increase over parkrun's typical 500-runner average.

Inspiring thousands at parkrun is just one part of the story. Wicks has spent years and built a career around making fitness fun, accessible, and simple for all.

How Joe Wicks has inspired millions beyond the gym

Wicks’ impact extends far beyond healthy recipes and workout videos. Moreover, he has helped millions of young adults and children during the COVID-19 pandemic with his bestselling nutrition books.

Some of his notable achievements include:

• The Body Coach app – A subscription platform that provides customized workout and nutrition plans.
• School fitness initiatives – Partnering with various schools and organizations to promote healthy eating and physical activity.
• Healthy recipe books – Wicks has authored many bestselling cookbooks that encourage simple, smart, nutritious meals.
• PE with Joe – He has hosted free live weekday workouts during the COVID-19 pandemic specially to keep children healthy and active.

Have you ever been on a 5K run, and would you consider being part of a large community event like this one?

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Written by

Avantika Das

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi