2 of 6

Write now Article Tools

Children should be encouraged to run as much as possible during the course of a day. Running comes so naturally to children that teaching the proper athletic technique should not be too difficult if done early in life. Children should be taught that one of the most important things to concentrate on with running is "economy of motion." In other words taking strides to big for your legs will tire you out and swinging the arms needlessly will us up energy you should save for running. Also, children should be taught not to run too fast all at once, as they will tire and not build up their endurance properly.

Teach a child proper stride technique, controlled breathing, and proper pacing and they will be well on the wall to mastering correct running technique.

Run to visit a friend, run to catch the school bus, join the school track team, and just plain "run" every chance they get. This way their growing bodies will become attuned to these demands and soon running will become second nature to any child who "stays on the move."

Each time a child runs, no matter where the running takes place, another step is being taken towards improving fitness and ability. Even more important, children take huge steps toward improving their over-all health when they take up an active exercise like running as a way of life.

One of the main things to teach a child is that "consistency"is the key to improving running. Making it something that is adopted as a daily routine, even just for short distances. Strength and an over-all sense of well being will be the reward.

It's important to realize that many desirable "spin-off" effects will result from a child's love of running, especially if they embrace it as their sport of choice one day.

As the great runner George Sheehan once said, "Running teaches everyone to be a hero. A hero is one who lives by their own decisions and choices. Often the energy used in running is matched be the effort used in other areas of life."

When you think about it, that makes a lot of sense. Power, Money, and possessions don't mean all that much if you have not payed attention to your physical well-being.

Running can provide just that for a child, so encouraging your child to run might well be one of the best gifts you can give them.

Learn more about this author, Ray Fauteux.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to teach correct athletic running technique to children?
We want to hear your view. Write now!