Kids are too young to run a full marathon (26.2 miles), but that doesn’t mean they can’t take on the distance.
They can use this Kids’ Marathon Running Challenge to accumulate and track their mileage until they cross a marathon “finish line”. This fun and motivating challenge is perfect for kids’ running clubs or teams, or for kids to just do on their own.
How to Do the Kids’ Marathon Running Challenge
It’s simple. Kids just run a total of at least 26.2 miles in as much time as it takes them. They can accumulate miles in whatever way they want to. For example, they could run a mile every other day, or run 1/2 mile 3x a week. Some kids may finish the challenge in a couple of weeks, while others may take a couple of months.
Kids Can Track Their Distances
Kids can use this handy, printable Kids’ Marathon Running Challenge tracking sheet to mark their progress as they go along. They can add up their progress each week and then add it to their accumulated total.
To measure distances, one option is to run on a track, most of which are about 1/4 mile. They can also run on trails, paths, or roads (with supervision). You can use Google Maps to measure the distance of a route in advance or use running apps such as MapMyRun, Charity Miles, Strava, or RunKeeper to keep track while running.
Beginner Runner Tips
If kids are new to running, here are some articles with basic advice to help them get started:
- Pre-Run Warm-Up Exercises
- Tips for Proper Running Form
- How to Breathe When Running
- How to Prevent Side Stitches
- Should I Run Every Day?
- What Pace Should I Run?
Beginner Running Schedules
If your kids want to follow a running schedule as they’re working towards their marathon goal, here are a few good beginner running schedules.
- 30-Day Beginner Running Schedule
- 8-Week Beginner Training Schedule to Run for 30 Minutes
- 4-Week Beginner Training Schedule to Run 2 Miles
More About Kids Running
Get more advice, tips, and games to help kids get excited about running:
- How to Get Kids Into Running
- Running Games for Kids
- Running Shoes for Kids
- Racing Games for Kids
- Gifts for Active Kids
- More Running Challenges for Kids
Print out the Kids’ Marathon Running Challenge tracking sheet to get started adding up the miles!
Older kids and adults may prefer to step it up with this Marathon in a Month Running Challenge.
About the author: Christine Luff is a certified RRCA running coach, kids’ track coach, and an American Council on Exercise certified youth fitness specialist. Her book, Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, is available on Amazon.
