The top 7 ways to include kids in your Ultra Training.
The importance of including the family in your ultra training can’t be underestimated.
Having the family on side supporting you is guaranteed to make you a better ultra runner but often we overlook the simple ways that this can be achieved.
- If you’re running on the road or trail, choose paths that are appropriate for bikes so the kids can ride with you. As they get older, they will be able to outride you and will be capable of tackling trails of increasing difficulty. They can also be great water carriers.
- Mix your training up once in a while so that your big run day doesn’t fall on the weekend. This can be achieved in a number of ways, such as double run days. This gives you more time with the family on the weekend; something they will thank you for.
- If you always run in the morning, change it to an afternoon run once a month so that you’re around in the morning and can spend time with the kids or your partner.
- Organise for the family to meet you for coffee after your run. This can be a great way to complete a point-to-point run rather than a looped course, as you conveniently now have a lift back.
- Let the kids know that running is something that is really important for you, but ask them if there’s something special they would like to do, such as playing mini golf, going to a movie, playing at the beach or visiting a new park. Make sure you keep your promise and treat them to the outing they want when you’re back from your run. This helps kids to associate your running with quality, fun family time.
- Encourage your partner to run or walk. If they’re new to running, they may have to come on one of your easy runs, or alternatively aim to finish at the same time and place for coffee.
- Make a weekend of it and camp (or glamp, if that’s your style) at national parks. This allows you to find new trails.
See you at the finish line of your best ultra.
Nick