Run Spunk, Run! Beginnings of a Young Runner

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Since Spunk was old enough to move on his own, I used to joke that he would skip walking and just get up and start to run. Well, that wasn't very far from the truth! This little boy has been fast on his feet since he got confident enough to take his first steps. When he was younger, I would push him in the stroller when I was training for a race or running in a 5k. He grew up loving being outside and feeling the breeze rush by. Once he was old enough, I entered him in the "Tot Trot" races that often occur before my 5k's, and he was hooked. We signed him up for soccer so that he could use his energy and running skills in a sport, because there aren't any running clubs around us that take kids younger than elementary age. He liked it, but it wasn't the same freedom as running in a race.

1 Mile Training

So, we found a local track and I began to run with him once he turned 4. It was a great activity for the whole family. We would take a jogging stroller for Sassy and head to the local track, weather permitting. With consistency, we were able to go from jogging half way around the track, to being able to run an entire mile without stopping.  There were a few tears, and definitely some whining, but he never gave up. He completed his first 1 mile fun run in July of that year, only 2 months later.

5k Training

Not long after, Spunk decided that he wanted to run a 5k with me. When he turned 5, I decided to let him try a "Couch to 5k" program. Again, we took Sassy in the jogging stroller and hit the track; but this time we had a solid training plan. The best part about our training was that we were accountability partners. We picked upbeat music, and made sure to distract each other when we started to get tired or winded. I was so proud of him for pushing himself and working towards such a big goal.

5k Racing

Both he and I were surprised and excited when he completed his first 5k this May (just before he turned 6) and won 1st place in his age group! Less than a month later, he begged to be entered into another 5k. He won 1st place in that race, not only in his age group, but he was also the first person to cross the finish line out of everyone! Spunk has now caught the running bug and can't get enough of it. He loves the freedom, and the chance to earn a medal is certainly a motivation for him. Our next goal is to sign up and participate in a runDisney race. He has set his sights on competing in the kids' dash for his age group, as well as the 5k with me. We will keep you posted on his progress!

Do your kids like to run? What kind of training do they do?