Monday

Should Young Children Run for Exercise?

Preschoolers definitely should not be taking part in endurance races. Of course, running is part of growing and play. It is important for mastering basic body movement, coordination and balance, build strength and confidence.

So how long should a child run? Some experts suggest a duration of no more than an hour for children under the age of nine, three to four times a week, but limited to no more than three kilometers.

Parents should remember that running for children should be fun - a sort of free, unstructured play rather than a long race. If you just want to encourage your child to develop a good habit of exercising frequently, you just have to set a good example yourself - there is no need to enforce a strict running regime.