The Royal Parks Half Marathon is back this October, ready to take over London’s most beautiful green spaces—and this year, runners have an extra edge.
Virgin Active has stepped up as the Official Training Partner, not just slapping its name on the event but actually helping participants get race-ready.
This isn’t just about logos and handshakes; it’s a real, hands-on commitment to making sure runners feel strong, supported, and fully prepped for one of the UK’s most breathtaking half marathons.
Virgin Active, a global health and wellness giant with 238 clubs spanning six territories, will transform race day on Sunday, 12th October into an experience of unrivalled support.
Runners won’t just be left to fend for themselves—Virgin Active is bringing the full package to help them train, recover, and perform at their best.
On race day, a dedicated wellness and recovery zone will be on hand to get participants prepped before they set off and help them bounce back once they’ve crossed the finish line.
In the lead-up to the event, runners can tap into free training sessions, nutrition webinars, and interactive workshops, all designed to fine-tune their performance and give them the best shot at smashing their goals.
For those eager to experience the club atmosphere first-hand, Virgin Active is offering a free guest pass prior to the event.
New members will also enjoy two complimentary personal training-introduction sessions, valued at £60, to perfect their training regimen.
Additionally, a special ‘Royal Parks Half Marathon Open Week’ is scheduled from Saturday, 4th October to Saturday, 11th October, granting full access to training and recovery facilities during the crucial final countdown.
The Royal Parks Half Marathon, which has attracted a record number of ballot entrants this year, promises to lead approximately 16,000 runners through four of London’s iconic Royal Parks—Hyde Park, The Green Park, St. James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens.
This route not only offers a visual feast of natural beauty but also provides a challenge that tests both endurance and spirit.
Liz Tack, Head of Royal Parks Half Marathon, enthused, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Virgin Active as our Official Training Partner for this year’s Royal Parks Half Marathon.
We know how important training and recovery is to all our runners and so we’re really happy to have the support of an industry-leading brand that will make a real difference in ensuring our runners feel prepared to take on the race”.
Andy Tomkins, Group Chief Marketing Officer of Virgin Active, added, “At Virgin Active, we’re more than just a gym—we’re a community dedicated to supporting every aspect of wellbeing, from fitness and nutrition to recovery and mental health, all essential for endurance events.
The Royal Parks Half Marathon is an iconic event, and we’re thrilled to support thousands of runners both in their training and on race day. We can’t wait to play a part in making their experience even better.”
This dynamic partnership not only elevates the race experience but also reinforces a shared vision: empowering runners to achieve their personal best, while embracing the beauty and challenge of London’s great outdoors.
For further information please visit: www.royalparks.org.uk and follow us on @theroyalparks, Facebook.com/TheRoyalParksLondon and Instagram.com/TheRoyalParks.