Running as a Sport in a Large Family

As a homeschooling mother it’s up to me to find ways for my children to get the proper exercise and fresh air. The way our family has supplied both is through running, particularly as a sport, by running half marathons together as a family.

How I Began Running

Running has never come naturally for me.  You can read about how I started running here.  It was a long process for me but one which I will never regret.  I started with walking on the treadmill for 20 minutes, worked up to jogging for a mile or two, and then progressed to …

My First Half Marathon!!!

When I first decided to run a half marathon it was just my husband and myself.  When we crossed the finish line the children were so excited for us!  They even met me about a quarter mile from the Finish line to run with me to the finish.  It was very helpful because I didn’t know how I was going to finish otherwise.

I remember crossing the finish line and swallowing the lump of emotion in my throat just to suppress the emotion of (finally!) finishing the half marathon.

When we got home and were busy licking our wounds (I was soooo sore!) we sat down on the couch and immediately started looking for another one to run.  I know it sounds odd but the accomplishment is addicting.

My Children Wanted To Run In One!

The funny thing is that my children saw ‘our pain’ and wanted a part of it.  When my children asked if they could participate in the next one how could I deny them the same accomplishment?  What better way to show them the power of hard work?

I know it may seem silly but one of the greatest motivators for them was the medal they saw me sporting around my neck.  If you are wanting to get your children interested in running long distance find them a half that has a nice, big, heavy medal.  My children compare their medals.  They choose their next marathon on the impressiveness of the medal.  The shirts also are important, but they are definitely secondary to their beautiful new medal.

What has helped your children want to exercise and/or run?  I know the medal just may not be enough for every child so if you have any new ideas please let me know!