serving Cabarrus & Mecklenburg Counties
FAQ’s
Studies show that girls between the ages of eight and twelve are still receptive to adult influence, while beginning to feel peer pressure. It is a period in our emotional and intellectual development when we become aware of and begin to recognize important life and relationship issues. In addition, learning to value physical activity early in life increases the likelihood of participants staying physically healthy into adulthood. Studies show that those who develop exercise habits by their teen years are most likely to maintain those habits for life. Regular, moderate exercise improves cardiovascular functioning, reduces the risk of developing breast cancer, osteoporosis and obesity and positively counters the effects of depression and anxiety.
Children’s bodies are well suited for endurance exercise, and numerous studies have shown that children show many positive physiological adaptations to endurance exercise training. The keys are gradual progression and common-sense adult supervision. If those conditions are met, running 3 miles is a reasonable goal for most young people.
-Russell R. Pate, Ph.D., Department of Exercise Science, University of South Carolina
Q: Why the young age?
A: Studies show that girls between the ages of eight and twelve are still receptive to adult influence, while beginning to feel peer pressure. It is a period in our emotional and intellectual development when we become aware of and begin to recognize important life and relationship issues. In addition, learning to value physical activity early in life increases the likelihood of participants staying physically healthy into adulthood. Studies show that those who develop exercise habits by their teen years are most likely to maintain those habits for life. Regular, moderate exercise improves cardiovascular functioning, reduces the risk of developing breast cancer, osteoporosis and obesity and positively counters the effects of depression and anxiety.
Q: Is it safe for young girls to run the 5K (3.1 mile) distance?
A: Children’s bodies are well suited for endurance exercise, and numerous studies have shown that children show many positive physiological adaptations to endurance exercise training. The keys are gradual progression and common-sense adult supervision. If those conditions are met, running 3 miles is a reasonable goal for most young people.
-Russell R. Pate, Ph.D., Department of Exercise Science, University of South Carolina
Q: How is Girls on the Run different from other recreational programs?
A: Girls on the Run is much more than a running program. Our program follows a set curriculum that has been tested and proven to “statistically improve girls’ self-esteem and body image.” The curriculum involves games and game pieces that reinforce teh key concepts in each lesson so that the girls are exposed to and encouraged to actively participate in making the connection between what the lessons are teaching and the “real” life situations. Upon completion of the program girls not only have increased physical fitness, they are more confident and have a set of “tools” to deal with peer pressure and other issues of adolescence.
Q: Why does it cost more than other programs like soccer and other track programs?
A: As mentioned above, Girls on the Run is more than a recreational program. We are part of an International program that requires us to pay for the curriculum and other copyrighted program materials. Also, unlike recreational sports our program uses games to emphasize and reinforce the lessons we teach. Most of these games have parts and pages that need to be replaced each season.
Q: What if my daughter is not a “runner” or does not like running?
A: The name “Girls on the Run” can be deceiving. Girls on the Run is about trying your best, whether you are walking, jogging or running. Our program is completely non-competitive and designed for girls of all fitness levels. Girls are encouraged to continue moving through the games that reinforce the topic being discussed for the day. We provide an encouraging atmosphere where girls can feel confortable just being themselves and going “their” speed.
Q: Who are the Girls on the Run Coaches?
A: All Girls on the Run coaches are volunteers that have been trained by Girls on the Run staff members. Our volunteers must completed a background check and head coaches must be CPR & First Aid certified. They are school faculty, parents and community members that are dedicated to encouraging and mentoring the girls throughout the season. If you are interested in volunteering please visit the volunteer page of our website for more information.
