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Fun Runs in the Summer Sun: the perfect family exercise activity!

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If there’s one things kids are known for, beyond their sweet little giggles and adoration of animated movies, it’s their seemingly-endless amounts of energy. They could jump on a trampoline for an hour and still have it in them to want to play pirates on the swing sets, and seamlessly transition from soccer practice to a high-stakes game of freeze tag without needing to catch their breath. And in our house, bedtime is less reading fairy tales and more pillow fighting.

So, what’s a mom to do when faced with a sunny Saturday morning and the boundless energy unique to only those under ten years old? You could take them to a local park or a science museum. However, when I’m looking to really help them burn off a whole bunch of energy, my favorite family-friendly activity is definitely a kid’s fun run. More and more 5k’s and longer runs across the United States are incorporating a fun run option for the littler runners. Not only is it a great way to get the kids outside and active, but often times 5ks are in support of a charitable cause, giving me ample opportunity to discuss important topics with the kids. These runs are a great way for me to help grow my kids’ love of exercise and build their desire to contribute in meaningful ways to the betterment of our world. And, as a lifelong runner myself, there is nothing I love more than being able to share one of my favorite activities with the ones that I love the most.

5ks are growing in popularity, and many cities across the US have 5k multiple runs per year, offering tons opportunities to go and have a good time with the whole family. 5ks and fun runs don’t require as much training as longer races, and draw in a diverse range of people of all ability levels. Even the casual runner and their family are sure to have a good time! Plus, some races have a festival afterwards where you can grab a snowcone to cool off after the long run. The sweet free t-shirts you get when you sign up for the 5k are great conversation starters the next Monday in the carpool line at school as well!

If you’re looking for a great way to get the whole family up and moving, I recommend checking out upcoming 5ks and fun runs in your area.

What’s your favorite creative way to get the whole family moving?

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