A volunteer-led fitness initiative that’s been getting Dubliners moving every weekend, and in a growing number of workplaces, is now calling on regular participants to take the lead.

Parkhiit is a social enterprise that promotes resistance-based exercise in public parks.

With an ambitious plan to expand beyond Dublin and reach communities nationwide, the next stage of growth depends on local volunteers stepping up.

“We’ve been outdoors and active every weekend of the year,” said Brian Crooke, the founder of parkHIIT.

“But for this movement to truly grow, we need leaders rooted in their local communities.”

The initiative first launched its Community Leader programme in late 2021, training and insuring a small cohort of regular attendees to manage sessions at existing locations.

Since then, those leaders have continued to grow in both skill and confidence, running workouts that are free, fun, and accessible to all fitness levels.

The next training day is scheduled for this Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Sports Physio Ireland in Dublin 2, led by former Dublin Senior Hurler Joey Boland.

Becoming a parkHIIT Community Leader doesn’t require any formal fitness qualifications.

Ideal candidates are regular parkHIIT participants who are familiar with basic bodyweight exercises like squats and lunges and who can commit to leading at least one session per month.

The responsibilities include inspecting the workout area for safety; managing the session timing (30 minutes total); demonstrating each exercise (no need for perfection!) and taking part in the workout.

The training is free, including insurance coverage to lead five pre-set parkHIIT workouts at specific sites.

“This isn’t about being a coach or expert,” explained Crooke. “It’s about creating a consistent, welcoming space for people to move together and stay active. It’s a great way to build confidence, meet new people, and support your community.”

“Even if you’re unsure, just reach out. We’d love to chat and see if it’s a good fit. There’s no pressure — just a chance to be part of something positive.”

 

Further Reading for Sport for Business members:

Check out Sport for Business coverage of  Fitness

 

SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

This is a great social enterprise, bringing fitness to the parks and the people of Dublin and asking nothing in return.

WHAT’S UP NEXT?

To learn more or reserve a spot at the upcoming training session, email brian@parkhiit.com.

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