Running A 5K With Kids
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If you have kids, but want to run a 5K (or other race), then you’re going to need to figure out how to train, and then what to do with the kids. Don’t let them stop you from making it happen.
Running a race can often be a strong motivator for many runners. It could be all you need to make you actually want to train, and get outside on a regular basis. Races are a bit different than regular running as there is a competition in them that you don't get when running on your own.
Even if you’re not running a race to be competitive, it’s still a different feel as there are so many people there that are doing the same thing. The camaraderie of it all will give you a different feeling as you start your run out. Once you get started running, it will feel a lot more of the same, but I’d still recommend giving it a try at least once.
A few years back, my wife wanted to run a 5K - it would be her first actual race. At the time, we had only one child, but we had to figure out the logistics of how we were going to make it work. It came together nicely, but it did require a bit of planning.
Train for your run
The first step is to figure out how you’re going to train for a 5K. You can of course just walk a 5K, and if you’re in pretty good shape already, you don’t actually really need to train at all for a 5K - it’s not too long of a distance. On the other hand, if you’ve never run before, or haven’t had an active lifestyle, you’ll want to train at least a little bit.
I recently wrote a short guide on how to find joy in running as a parent. It will give you a few ideas on how you can begin running, and what your options are. Realistically, if you want to make it happen, it’s not too hard to start running.
Determine what race you’re going to run
Of course, it will be important to know which race you’re going to run. There are generally a lot of options. You’ll want to figure out the dates that work best for you, and what price works for you.
Most 5K races are pretty inexpensive. It’s honestly the biggest downside I find from running in races - I can run the same distance without actually paying to race. However, as I stated earlier, running a race has a very different feel, and many people really enjoy running with a lot of other people. It may also be additional motivation to actually prepare.
Regardless, you’ll need to find a race, and get signed up. If you’ve never run a race before, make sure you understand check-in procedures. Most races will do check-in the days before the race, but smaller races will do or allow them the day of. Just make sure you understand that when signing up for the race as you may have to go somewhere the day before the actual race.
Figure out what you’re doing with your kids
You have several options on this front, and it will depend on several factors. Your first option is to leave the kids with your partner, or someone else to watch. Some races start really early in the morning, and it may not be feasible to take your kids with you. Leaving them at home can be your best option in those cases. You’ll need someone to watch them, but it should be one less stress you have to deal with.
Of course, they could come to the race as well. It can be really motivating to have them at the start or end of the race to cheer you on as you finish. Having someone watch your kids while you run can be a great option. There are usually a few activities going on at the start/finish, so this can be a fun thing to do for your kids as well.
Another option is to bring your kids with you in a stroller. You’ll need a running stroller, and you’ll want to have trained running with it in advance as they can be awkward. A 5K is reasonable for a running stroller, but may be more difficult with longer distances. Make sure you’ve verified that the race allows strollers as well. This is a great option if both parents are trying to run together or you don’t have another option for care.
Have fun
Go out and enjoy your race. After having trained and coordinated your day, race day should be a fun time...other than the grueling run ahead. Get your run over with, and then enjoy some time at the finish line. Visit any booths they may have, and enjoy a nice snack. You’ve earned it.
