Synopsis
‘It was the bonds I made with people through running that helped me to feel like I belonged.’
From childhood, Paul Sinton-Hewitt understood the intrinsic need for connection and belonging. After navigating the care system of South Africa in his childhood and enduring both his career and marriage breaking down years later, he turned to running as a lifeline. Longing for community and purpose, he had one simple idea: he would start a weekly run every Saturday morning in his local park. No prizes, no pressure, no fee. His only rule: he would always be there, whether anyone showed up or not.
From the thirteen runners who joined that first weekend, Paul created parkrun, which has grown into a truly global community over twenty years and united millions of people from all walks of life.
One Small Step is more than Paul’s inspiring memoir; it’s a blueprint for how coming together in simple ways can improve the health and happiness of millions worldwide.
Details
02 April 2026
9781035065073Reviews
As an avid park runner I loved this book but there was so much more to Paul’s story than I could have imagined. A gripping read
Parkrun gave me hope and a community in a time where I felt lost. Paul’s contribution to the world has helped so many people and understanding his story behind the worldwide movement is truly inspiring. This book is more than just a story about how parkrun began – it’s a powerful reminder about why we lace up our shoes in the first place
Paul’s story is as fascinating and surprising as it is inspiring. His legacy is of the greatest modern feel-good success stories
This book is perfect to inspire those to take those first steps into running, it shows there’s still real strength and kindness in the world. Parkrun proves we haven’t lost faith in each other
