• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • About/Hire Me
    • About Me
    • Hire Me
    • Contact
    • Family
    • Faith
    • FAQ
    • My Running Story
    • Recipes
  • Disney
  • Fitness
    • runDisney Information Page
    • Fitness
    • Races
  • Parenting
  • Travel

Through Heather's Looking Glass

  • Disney
  • Fitness
  • Travel
  • family
  • About Me

Running With Kids

August 30, 2016 | baby, blogging, fitness, running

Jeff Galloway is back sharing his running wisdom, and I am passing it on to you today. I was excited to read this article since I now have a toddler to LOVES to run (in particular… away from me.) She is even entered to run in her very first runDisney kids race next April, and currently loves when we go for walks around the block—she runs a lot of the way! Check out this research Jeff shares about kids and running, and his tips for making it an enjoyable experience for everyone.

FullSizeRender (56)
Kids think and learn better when they exercise regularly, according to research.  Whether you run with your child, a  niece/nephew/grandchild, or a neighborhood kid, you can make a positive impact  on a young life.
Why  is running with kids such a great thing to do? Most kids like to do things with an adult.  By running comfortably with a child you can positively imprint exercise as a natural and expected part of the daily routine, that is fun.
What does  running do for kids–better than other sports? Kids who run tend to have better self esteem, better grades, and are happier.  Unlike other sports, that require specific skills, any kid can run and walk.  When running, you have one of the best opportunity for quality time.  The most powerful reward for most kids is the special attention an adult gives to a child during and after a run.

How do I know  when a child is ready to run?  Running is a natural activity.  Unfortunately, many kids have have had bad experiences because they have run until they were exhaused.  Tell the child that you really want to go on a walk/run with him or her.  Offer a simple reward (a special snack such as juice, a toy).  Insert walk breaks every minute, before the child huffs and puffs, and stop before the child is tired.

ek run
For kids ages 6 and under:
How long should I let a  kid this age run? Usually between 10 and 20 seconds at first.
How much of our ‘run’ should be spent  walking? Walk for a minute or two between run segments.
What should I be careful of?  Most kids can run farther and faster than they should at this age.  Make sure the segments are short so that there is no huffing and puffing.  Make each session playful and stop before the child is really tired.
Ages 7 to 9:
How long should I  let a kid run?  Start with about a quarter of a mile(one lap around a track).  Increase by 1-2 tenths of a mile each run until you reach one mile.  For kids that really enjoy running, you could gradually increase the distance to 3.5 miles (one day a week) and enter a 5K.  Be sure to keep the pace slow during the first mile of the first race, with walk breaks every 1-2 minutes.
What is a good run/walk ratio for a kid this  age? Jog for 10-20 seconds/walk for 40-50 seconds.  After two weeks, if this seems “too easy”, increase the amount of running each week by 5 seconds and decrease the walking by 5 seconds until you are using 30 seconds/30 seconds.  For the kids that want more, gradually increase to one min/one min, then 2 min run while inserting 1 min walk.  As kids want to run more, you can increase the running but walk when the child starts to huff and puff.
What should I be careful of (are they prone to going to hard and  crashing and burning?) If you sense that the kid is struggling, walk more.  This usually improves attitude and conserves energy for a strong finish.  It’s OK to run a little faster at the end but don’t run all-out.  It is OK to let the child “win” each run.
Ages 10 to 12:
How long? Beginner kids that are out of shape should follow the suggestion for ages 7-9 at first.  For moderately active 10-12 year olds (soccer players, etc.) start with about half a mile.  Increase by about a quarter of a mile on each run until you reach 1.5 to 2 miles—or whatever distance seems to feel comfortable but satisfying.
What’s a good run/walk ratio for this age  group?  Kids that are just starting, should follow the suggestion for  ages 7-9.  Kids that have been running (soccer, etc) can jog for 10-20 seconds each minute during a 10 minute warmup and find the ratio that avoids huffing and puffing: 1-1, 2 min  run/1min walk, then 3-1, and only 4-1 if a kid has no problem with this.
What should I be aware of (are they actually likely to kick my  butt?)  Many 10 to 12 year olds can run very fast at the beginning, and burn out later.  Keep the pace slow for the first third of the run.
Is this age child old enough to run a 10-K?  Most kids who gradually build mileage to 6.5 miles, once a week, will have no problem with a 10K if you help them start slowly, with walk breaks every2- 3 minutes or so.
How is  it possible to get a real workout in when running with a  kid? Don’t worry about your workout, try to make the child’s experience a good one.  Many adult mentors run their workouts before or after running with the child athlete.
What’s the best way to  bring a child along on my runs—even if she can’t keep up on her own  two feet?  Slow down and walk more.  Playing games allows for the distance to go by quickly.  If the child is laughing and running you have been a successful coach.

————————————-

Hurry up and SAVE! Jeff Galloway 13.1 race registration price increases on September 2nd! Join the 3rd Annual Jeff Galloway 13.1 Race Weekend! December 9-11, 2016
Register now -www.jeffgalloway131.com

QOTD: Do your kids like to run? have they ever done a race before?

Like this:

Like Loading...

Sign up for my newsletter

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Mindy (Road Runner Girl) says

    August 30, 2016 at 7:43 am

    I just LOVE the pictures of EK running! So cute! I’ve run with my boys a few times but they don’t really enjoy it lol! They DO like to take walks though so that’s what we do instead.

  2. Runaway Bridal Planner says

    August 30, 2016 at 4:11 pm

    Great post! I do’t have kids, but as someone who was raised by parents who let me tag along on an occasional run, entered me in races at a young age, I can say it really does help you grow in so many ways, one of your points about self esteem being one of them.
    Cute pictures by the way!!!

    • Heather says

      September 6, 2016 at 4:01 pm

      That’s so great you got to run with your parents!

  3. Rick Stiles says

    August 31, 2016 at 11:48 pm

    Thanks for posting this! I’ve agreed to work up a couch to 5K running plan for an 8 year old, and this helps a loT

    • Heather says

      September 6, 2016 at 4:01 pm

      Glad to help!

Primary Sidebar

I am Heather Montgomery, a 30 something southern girl living in Knoxville, Tennessee with my husband Bobby, 10-year-old daughter Emma Kate, and our goldendoodles Dolly and Luna. I’m just a regular girl who likes to workout, travel, hang with my family, text, and eat chips and queso. Be sure to check out my “about me” page for more info!
Thank you for visiting, and feel free to contact me with questions, (or for PR inquiries or press trip invites) at Support@HeathersLookingGlass.com.

Please, no guest post requests. 🙂

More about me

Privacy Policy

You can also find me here:

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Recent Posts

  • Family Fun in Tuscaloosa: Your Ultimate Getaway Beyond Game Day
  • 5 Reasons to Try a New Way of Travel
  • Experience Superhero-Sized Fun at Gaylord Opryland DC Summer
  • Digital Nomads: Safely Working Remotely While You Roam
  • Tips for Surviving (and Thriving) as a Travel Ball Mom

 

Search

How to Start a Blog

How to start a blog
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
  • Disney
  • Fitness
  • Travel
  • Family
🌴 GIVEAWAY ALERT!🌴 Ready to escape to para 🌴 GIVEAWAY ALERT!🌴 

Ready to escape to paradise? I spent a few dreamy days at Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers, and I’m giving YOU the chance to win 2 FREE nights at this beachfront oasis! 😍☀️ #margaritavillepartner

Here are 5 things I didn’t expect to love so much (but totally did):
1️⃣ Fins Up Beach Club — live music, great drinks, and cabana vibes for days!
2️⃣ The Rooms — bright, coastal decor and ocean views that make you feel like you’re living inside a vacation postcard.
3️⃣ The Spa — a total hidden gem. My massage was next-level relaxation.
4️⃣ The Restaurants — from casual beachfront bites to more elevated dining, the food alone is worth the trip.
5️⃣ The Vibe — laid-back luxury with the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. It’s always 5 o’clock here! 🍹

✨ Whether you’re staying overnight or popping in with a day pass, Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach is pure island bliss.

🎉 Now YOU could win a 2-night stay!

🏖️ Prize: Complimentary Two-Night Stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach
⚠️ Blackout dates apply.

How to Enter:
✅ Like this post & follow both @HeathersLG and @margaritavillefortmyers
✅ Tag at least 2 friends in the comments (extra comments = extra entries!)
✅ Comment: Are you a pool or beach person?

🌟 BONUS (not mandatory) for 5 extra entries: SHARE this post on your stories and TAG me so I can see it!

Good luck — and remember, it’s always island time somewhere! 🌊🍹

Redemption Details:
Winner must book by August 31, 2025
Valid for travel between August 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026

Must be 18+ to enter
Giveaway closes midnight July 25, 3025. Not sponsored by Instagram. 

#MargaritavilleResort #FortMyersBeach #BeachClubVibes #CabanaLife #SpaDay #BeachGetaway #ResortGiveaway #FinsUp
I’ve had an interesting first few days of being I’ve had an interesting first few days of being in my 40’s. A bit of a nerve wracking medical week I guess you could say. 

Have you ever had an MRI? Do you suffer from hearing loss? 👂 

#thisis40 #hearingloss #mri #inmy40s #40andfabulous
✨ This is what radiance looks like ✨ #ad Sin ✨ This is what radiance looks like ✨ #ad 

Since turning forty, I’ve been all about simple changes that help me feel strong, healthy, and confident — inside and out. 

Adding Organixx Collagen to my coffee each morning has been one of the easiest ways to support my skin, hair, and joints while juggling busy mom life. It blends right in and makes me feel like I’m doing something good for myself every single day. 

Because for me, it’s not just about looking good — it’s about feeling my best, staying active, and showing up for the people and moments that matter most. 
Radiance starts from within, and @organixxco helps make it part of my everyday routine.

🤩Use code HMONTGOMERY to save 10%! Link is in my bio.

 #organixx #organixxcollagen #CollagenRoutine #GlowFromWithin #BusyMomLife #ThisIsWhatRadianceLooksLike
I LOVE @disneyphotopass photographers! We have met I LOVE @disneyphotopass photographers! We have met some of the kindest most fun cast members while getting our pictures taken. 

If you don’t get pics taken with them often you probably won’t get this reel, and that’s ok. IYKYK. It’s all in good fun! 💚

What did I miss/forget?😆

#disneyphotopass #photopassphotographer #disneypics #disneyfunny #disneymeme
Follow me for more parenting hacks. 💁🏻‍♀ Follow me for more parenting hacks. 💁🏻‍♀️

#backtoschool #parentinghack #backtoschooltips #backtoschoolshopping
I turned 40 today. 🎉 Hitting a milestone like t I turned 40 today. 🎉 Hitting a milestone like this has me reflecting—not just on what I’ve accomplished, but on who I’m becoming.

I’ve always been driven to achieve, to push, to prove. But lately, I’ve been learning to celebrate presence over performance, connection over perfection.

Today wasn’t about checking a box or hitting a goal—it was about pausing, feeling grateful, and eating a ridiculous amount of cake with people I love. And honestly? That feels like growth.

Here’s to 40: more aligned, more grounded, and still a little extra. 😉

#thisis40 #40andfabulous #thankyoujesusfor40years #birthdaygirl❤️ #40andoverclub
Turning 40 tomorrow. 🎂 Big milestones always Turning 40 tomorrow. 🎂 

Big milestones always make me pause and ask:
What am I proud of?
What needs to shift?
Am I becoming the woman I want to be?

💡 As an Enneagram 3, I’ve always been wired to achieve — and for a long time, that meant shaping myself into whatever version I thought people would like best.

There are tables where it’s clear I’m not welcome — and that used to wreck me.
But at 40? I don’t do cliques. I don’t do shrinking or contorting to be accepted. 👀

I’ll always be kind. I’ll always be respectful. But I’m done dragging a chair to tables that were never built for me.

I’m moving over. Making space.
Creating my own table.

✨Who’s in?

#ThisIs40
#OwnYourStory
#ReelTalk
#Over30Club
#ChristianWomen
#PersonalGrowthJourney
#enneagram3

Copyright © 2025 · Through Heather's Looking Glass · Theme by Bella Creative Studio

%d