Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:I have a 5th grade DD who wants to start running. She plays soccer and has been a swimmer, but she has so much energy to burn. We've done a couple 5Ks and she has done Girls on the Run at school, but they aren't doing it this year. Neither DH nor I are runners. Does anyone know of a running program for kids? I'd love a group setting with other kids that can teach her how to run/how to breathe, maybe even the beginning of cross country, etc. We're in MoCo.
Firebirds track club is sprint focused but does offer youth distance. Bethesda track club good at getting kids involved and in meets. From a high school level I don't think they are well trained but for a middle schooler its a good intro to running. MCRRC used to have a kids program but it was lame but they have lots of good races for kids to try. Rockville striders used to be a good distance program but I believe they are now defunct.
I wouldn't sign an 11 year old for any major training but just 2-3 days a week, nothing hard or serious along with the other sports will be good prep for middle school XC/ high school running. Keep the other sports though, that is huge for injury prevention