120 youngsters become "Kids on Track"
September 22, 2017
The "Kids On Track" activity, sponsored by Stay Healthy Kids and hosted by the Vestal Rail Trail and Confluence Running, has signed up 120 Greater Binghamton children to participate in the beginner walking and running program. It launched Sept. 10 and will continue through Nov. 5. Kids and families have enjoyed getting out together and being active.
The program calculates mileage, both on Sunday group participation and distance they do independently throughout the week. The program is geared to children ages 5 to 15, and will include guided walking and running, relay races, mile-trackers, wellness discussions, giveaways, post-workout smoothies, snacks and Kids On Track-logoed shirts. The fee is $10 per youngster.
Prizes will be awarded for cumulative milestone markers of five, 10, 15 and 20 miles, and a grand prize for all who reach the "marathon level" of 26.2 miles over the nine weeks. There will also be separate prizes for relay winners.
To sign up: Go to KidsOnRightTrack.Eventbrite.com. If you have questions, call 221-3727.
Studies show that walking and running are good for children and teenagers. The youngsters have fun, improve their concentration and feel calmer. They gain a sense of control over their walking environment, become observant of what they encounter on their journey and have some time to themselves to think. Simultaneously, they get very good exercise.