RunningMoms' Blogs

I know I've blogged about this before, about a year ago.  That's when I went for a run with my youngest daughter Grace.  But today I had an interesting experience -- trying to convince my oldest daughter to go running.

I'd been sidelined with a sinus infection for two weeks an hadn't run since that craziness started.  So when I felt better today, I had the itch.  I knew I'd need some tissues, but I was going.  Even if it was short.  Even if it was slow.  I was determined not to feel bad.  

But in the process I saw my children, sitting on their bums in front of the computer or in front of the television.  And today was a perfect day for being outside.  So I sent my youngest daughter out to play in the snow.  She was out there for about 20 minutes (compared to the hour plus she was out yesterday).  And I challenged my 11-year-old, run a mile with me, go out and play in the snow, or come up with some other alternative that would something active she could do.

After some prodding, she decided to run a mile with me.  I started my run and went 2 miles first, then ran by the house and "picked her up". She did a good job, although she seemed to be overworking it a bit, stomping her feet and really bouncing up high with each step.  So I tried to work with her on her pace and stride.  While I'm no expert, I don't think running should be nearly as noisy as what she was doing.

We finished the mile and she was happy with it.  Maybe I'll try to do this more often...once a weekend with my daughter would be nice!  I did write an article and sourced several resources about how best to get your kids to start and maintain activity.  You can check out the article here.