By Hollie Harris
If your child is keen to take up jogging or running with you, here is some advice from The Athletes Foot.
Q: What are the benefits of running for children?
A: An early introduction to exercise will have a lifelong influence into health and general well being; 30 minutes of running, walking, basketball etc. Three times a week will mean 30 less minutes, three times a week, of screen time and lead to improved overall health development, in addition to life wellness, less obesity, less diabetes, less heart disease and generally improved mental and physical health.
Q How do I ensure that they don’t get hurt?
A: Even if they want to run every day, a child should have one to two days off per week. And the parent or guardian should be alert to possible burnout if the child complains of non-specific muscle or joint problems, fatigue, or poor academic performance.
Q: If my child does strain a muscle, how do I ensure they heal properly, but still stay interested in running?
A: Even children can overdo it and develop a stress injury. Rest is the best cure. However, we do not want to discourage exercise so cross training is appropriate. In other words, pick a different activity: brisk walk, cycle, play ball, swim etc.
