6 Year old and running

ajarvis · 27-May-12, 10:27 PM

My son will be 6 in July. After watching me train for the half marathon he wants to do a race. There is a kids race in July that is 600m that he's going to do - and he does that on the treadmill now anyways. BUT there is a 5K that he wants to do in the mountains in September. It's family friendly can be walked or ran. So I'm wondering do I take him out on short runs slowly getting longer to build up to doing a 5K? I definitely don't want a "training plan" per say since he'll be playing flag football as well this summer. Not even sure if I should let him do it, but apparently it's not uncommon for his age to participate in this run...

28-May-12, 02:11 PM

All i can say is keep it fun. young bones and body are developing and can be damaged very easily when pushed.

ajarvis · 28-May-12, 03:56 PM

Yea I definitely don't want to push him. I don't let him push himself too much when he goes on the treadmill or let him stay on long lol. He always wants to run faster

28-May-12, 10:28 PM

Like bodyshop20 said. Keep it fun because that will keep him motivated.

The good thing about his joints, muscles, and bones forming...he's NOT going to push far or hard enough to hurt himself. Let him train as hard as he wishes...and modern pediatrician who's kept up with their reading will tell you the same. It will not stunt his growth or damage his bones and joints. Just let him have a good time...

And it's great that you are encouraging him to be fit.

As in the other thread...too many parents are teaching kids to be soft, weak, and fat... yours is on the right track as led by your good example.

My 10 year old is now training for his first powerlifting meet... yes, they have a pre teen division. If there is something physical and active that they enjoy...encourage it and lead with a good example as you've done.

**beefcurry1** · 29-May-12, 10:07 PM

http://www.kiiitv.com/story/16574968...d-squat-record

just throwing that out there.

DBZ Status · 30-May-12, 08:05 PM

damn strong as an ant!

ajarvis · 01-Jun-12, 03:22 PM

Probably exactly what we'll do. I know a loop around here that's 5K. I'll just let him build up to it slowly and naturally. After he does the first 600m race if he likes it I'll let him register for the 5k with me. Just means I won't be able to do the half marathon that day

ajarvis · 01-Jun-12, 03:23 PM

wow that little girl is STRONG!!!

03-Jun-12, 09:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by beefcurry1

http://www.kiiitv.com/story/16574968...d-squat-record

just throwing that out there.

WOW

DBZ Status · 21-Jul-12, 04:59 PM

i would still exercise for the mental benefits personally