I Ran a Naked 5K!
Mid-September found me running through the wonderful setting of the British Naturist Foundation in Swanley, just outside London. How on earth did it come to this?
Well, I wouldn’t really call myself a naturist—or maybe I would, I’m honestly a bit fuzzy on the definition. My wife and I have visited Vabali in Berlin and Hamburg (absolutely amazing, do yourself a favour and check it out!) and we’ve gone naked in Vienna at a spa there. Plus, I’m a regular at the gym, so the whole changing-room nakedness thing has never bothered me.
Still, running an actual race without clothes? That’s new.
Why a Naked 5K?
This year I turned 50, and while scrolling Instagram I stumbled across an advert for a Naked 5K. They run it twice a year—May and September. The September one suited, and without overthinking it, I decided: this will be my “mad thing” for turning 50. Why not?
I already dabble in running—Parkruns and the like—so it wasn’t completely out of left field.
The Journey
We kept it simple: fly Ryanair to Gatwick on Friday, run Saturday, home Sunday. From Gatwick we hopped on the Gatwick Express straight to Victoria and stayed at a Premier Inn. Saturday morning, we set off for Swanley.
They say you can grab a taxi from Swanley station to the Foundation, but none were to be found that day. The weather wasn’t great either, so we ended up walking the 2.5 km. Not ideal, but manageable.
Arrival & Atmosphere
Once checked in, I stripped down, got my lipstick race number painted on my chest, and I was good to go. My wife chose to stay clothed, which was totally fine—there was no pressure on anyone.
The facilities were impressive: sauna, swimming pool, tea rooms, and even a bar. By the time the race began, the weather had turned warm and pleasant, making the whole naked thing surprisingly comfortable.
There were 173 entries, roughly a 60/40 split men to women, with a great mix of younger runners, couples, and older participants. Everyone was friendly, chatty, and the atmosphere was fantastic.
The Run
We first walked the course, which was helpful since it turned out to be a trail run—something I’d never tried before. Then it was time for the main event.
I slotted myself somewhere in the middle of the pack and, judging by my wife’s cheering from the sidelines, I didn’t do too badly. I forgot to set my watch, but I wasn’t far behind the leaders.
Afterwards I tucked into a well-deserved wrap from an onsite food vendor while my wife enjoyed a beer. Again, no pressure—some partners stayed dressed while their other halves ran naked. It all felt very natural.
After the Finish
There was a designated photo spot, so I got the obligatory picture behind the race sign (safe for sharing!) and another at the front for anyone who really wants the proof.
We cleaned up, had a wander, and stayed for about four hours. Many others were camping or bringing caravans, but as first-timers we kept things short and sweet. Now that we know the place, maybe next time we’ll stay longer.
Would I Do It Again?
Absolutely.
It was an experience I’ll never forget. The medal already has pride of place at home, and they’ll be sending out professional photos in about six weeks (you can opt in with a white wristband, or opt out with a red one).
For my 50th birthday challenge, it couldn’t have been better—and yes, I’d 100% do it again.
John Garry
