training for kids

[mom418]

my kids are going to 'train' for some track events this july. they may do some field events, but we'll mostly work on training for the running. 4 x 100 relay, 400, not sure of the other distances. they are 6, 7, and 10. 2 oldest are boys, and a girl. they are all healthy now, this is just for fun. the 2 oldest have run in the races before, so they want to again.

anyone have some ideas for routines that are fun for them? we have a big backyard, and a workout room inside for when it's raining or really hot. although, they will need to get used to being outside, it's very hot and humid running in july.

 

[jdimascio]

My kids run too, my 2 daughters really enjoy 5K as well...they are about the same ages (10,8,6 &4). Anyway, I sometimes create obstacle courses outside using the playset, and I'll time them and try and see if they can beat their times. I also do station, I set up 4 stations with cones and have them go to each station for 30 seconds, then rest and repeat. Stuff like suicides with the cones, jumping jacks, jump rope, mountain climbers. They think it's fun and don't realize that they are exercising, but it also helps with their running. I love taking them on hikes too.

I also both the Shaun T kids workouts from Beachbody, they are perfect for your kids ages. The cardio is 23 minutes and the strength is 27 (using body weight).

 

[DixieGirl]

Do your kids enjoy swimming? My two oldest are competitive swimmers and their endurance is amazing due to swimming as much as they do. If you have access to an indoor pool where they can lap swim that might be a fun, change of pace type of training for them. And then when it warms up outdoor pools are more readily available. If they like the water you could always let them play in the water as a reward for swimming a few meters for 30 min or so.

 

[mom418]

we don't go to a gym, so we don't go swimming that often. we'll do it sometimes in the summer though.

i def. want to do an obstacle course in the backyard. we have tires already out there. they've already started jumping in them and rolling them. not sure what else to do.

any other suggestions?