Running with your children

Latoya Grindley, Staff Reporter

Gone are the days when marathons and various runs were flocked only by fitness enthusiasts. Morphing into a new activity for persons of varying age and fitness levels, these races have become very popular in Jamaica.

Participating in these runs has almost turned into a social event for many beyond the sphere of being motivated to take part in a physical activity. The events are also creating new ways for families to bond.

Promoted as family- and children-friendly, many of these scheduled runs are staged to raise awareness about, and as fundraisers for various causes.

According to executive member of Race for Hope, Leighton Morrison, getting parents to participate with their children is one way of getting the children to embrace the concept of living healthy, as well as appreciating their roles as valuable members of society through acts of goodwill.

"It really teaches them discipline and endurance because you really need both to finish your races. And for races like Race for Hope, which is organised for a cause, it really instils in the minds of our children that we don't just live for ourselves."

Parents turning up at the starting line in matching shirts and bibs with their children is no longer an uncommon assurance.

Enjoyment

But according to Morrison, while the children are most times more excited than their parents, it is important for the parents to ensure that the experience is enjoyed wholeheartedly by both adults and children. He explains that they can ensure this happens through clear and thorough instructions so everyone knows what is expected of them on that day.

"Even though the minimum age to participate at our race is nine years old, I always encourage parents to run or walk with their children. Do not leave them behind or allow them to leave you unless you believe they are capable and old enough to do so. You want to enjoy yourself but have peace of mind as well."

With a number of runs/walks scheduled for the rest of the year, the most immediate is Race for Hope, slated for September 29 at the Hope Gardens. The proceeds will be going towards the restoration of Hope Zoo, and parents can look forward to spending some valuable time with their children while participating for a worthy cause.

For information on this and other races, you may also visit www.runningeventsja.com. Go get registered!

Additional source: http://anothermotherrunner.com

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com

Tips for making racing fun with children

• No matter the pace and result, remind children that they are all winners.
• Allow them additional time outdoors to increase their endurance levels. Do not become a drill sergeant. Simply allow them to engage in physical outdoor activities which they enjoy doing.
• Training should be fun. If your children are old enough to participate in your training sessions, allow them to prepare with you so that they are physically ready as well.
• Talk to your children before the start of the day so everyone understands what is expected of them. Let them know at the end of the race where everyone should meet if they don't cross the finishing line together. Ensure that younger children know exactly who they will be supervised by and to whom stay with, so no one gets lost.
• Inject some family spirit into it by dressing up. Whether by wearing the same shirt, socks or even headbands, make it a family event and add some personality to the day.
• Don't forget to take pictures, cheer on, and motivate each other.