Create Running Logs for Kids

Running logs can add a creative element to a home fitness program with your family. Of course an Excel spreadsheet, graph paper or simple calendar can do the trick, but these aren’t as inspiring as a customized running log.

Personal Mileage Charts

Kids can log their personal mileage and have fun doing it.

• Decide on a goal. Do they want to complete a 5K, or run 10 miles?
• Whatever they choose is then broken down into manageable sections.
• Choose a template, it can be a simple circle, or cut out a footprint from cardboard. You can also use a small cookie cutter as your stencil.
• Fill a page with shapes that equal the number of steps that it will take to reach their goal. For example, if they chose to run 10 miles and broke that into 1/2 miles, they would have 20 shapes on their page.
• Each time they complete a 1/2 mile, or whatever their particular distance is, they will color in a shape.
• Have a prize to work towards to keep them motivated. Something simple like a special bead to lace on their shoelace, or a bracelet that gets filled up as they complete charts is an inexpensive motivator.

“Just Do It” Running Logs

The idea behind a Just Do It running log is to simply get them exercising. The focus is not on mileage or distance, only if they ran that day. Younger children especially will like this idea. These charts are also good for reluctant exercisers and those who don’t like to record specific distances.

• Using your computer or a ruler, separate a page into 6, 8, or 12 sections.
• Each day the child runs, they can fill in a box.
• Ask them to draw something they saw on the run, like a squirrel or red bird.
• They could also draw what they were thinking of while running, a daydream or something they want to do later.
• Once a page is full, add it to a three ring binder so they can keep track of how many days they ran. It is also a cute keepsake, especially if the child grows up and joins track. Something fun to look back on and show off at their graduation ceremony!

Run Across the Country

Families or running clubs can take advantage of group dynamics and create a group running log.

• Choose an ambitious destination, a specific place like Hollywood, Hawaii or a nearby water park, playground, or laser tag facility.
• Using the computer, figure out the distance from your home to the destination.
• Use a large map, poster board, or butcher paper to draw your route.
• Place mile markers every 10 miles or so across the map or paper.
• Have the kids fill out their own charts and turn them in when complete.
• As a group, chart your progress toward your destination.
• Incentives should be a little larger with a group project like this. Plan a party in the theme of your destination like a luau or take a trip to the laser tag facility or water park.

Running Journals

Combine the best elements of the above ideas and create a running journal for your child.

• Purchase an inexpensive notebook from the dollar store. A 5X7 or 6X9 journal works well.
• Fill in some of the pages using the ideas above, or leave it blank.
• Decorate the cover with their name and label it a running journal.
• Stickers from the craft store are available in any imaginable style. Look for a running or nature specific pack.
• Encourage running and journaling to instill two healthy habits.
• This works best if they see you doing the same thing, so create one for yourself if you don’t already have one.
• Log in time, distance, or simply thoughts and feelings.