Why Training Kids for Fun Runs Matters:
Lessons from Running 4 Miles with My Boys

Are you putting your kids into their first "fun run"? Stop! Read this before you lace up those tiny trainers—it could make ALL the difference to their running experience (and safety)!

Welcome, Runpreneur family writing to you on consecutive day 1,834 of my mission to run every single day until I’ve completed a lap of the world—yes, that’s a staggering 40,075 km—with the goal of raising £1,000,000 for children’s causes. Today, I want to share a personal and timely storey about preparing my two boys, aged 14 and 10, for our local four-mile Fengallop fun run. If you’ve got kids showing an interest in running, or just want a real parent’s perspective on balancing training, fun and safety, this post is for you.

Four Miles Isn’t “Just” a Fun Run (Especially for Children!)

It’s easy to see “fun run” on a leaflet and think, ‘Oh, anyone can do that.’ I did—until I watched how a year out of regular running impacted my youngest, James. As a dad, I’ve always been active with my boys. The eldest runs with me weekly and is at the point where I’d rather not race him unless it’s beyond 5k! My 10-year-old, though, used to be a phenomenal runner—until a year off shifted everything.

So when James asked to join this year’s four-mile race (because his mates were entering), I was delighted but wary. Four miles is a huge distance for a 10-year-old, especially with a year’s break in his legs. We set a non-negotiable rule: run with Dad once a week for four weeks, or no race day.

The Magic (and Struggle!) of Training Together

What followed was eye-opening for us both. My eldest breezed through the training, fit and confident. James, however, found it tough. Watching him rediscover both the challenge and joy of running was powerful—and also a stark reminder: fitness fades fast, no matter your age.

Our latest session: we passed 5k in just over 33 minutes. For a 10-year-old returning after a year off? That’s impressive. He wanted to stop at times, but stayed resilient, and that mindset is half the battle in running (kids OR adults). I’m proud beyond words.

But the take-away is clear—putting a child into a distance race with zero recent training is risky. It’s hard, it can actually be dangerous, and it’s not fair on them. They deserve to cross the line happy and strong, not stumbling from exhaustion or even injury.

Progress, Positivity and the Power of Consistency

Here’s the great news: even just four consecutive weekly runs turns a daunting race into an achievable adventure. Each run gets that little bit easier; by race day, the adrenaline and excitement (and maybe his big brother as a pacer!) will see James home.

For parents: this is worth shouting from the rooftops. Consistency is key for EVERY runner—children included. Letting them discover that progress themselves is one of the best life lessons you can offer.

The Runpreneur Mission: More than Miles

This journey with my boys is what the Runpreneur Challenge is all about—real world experiences, positive action, and raising vital funds to save children’s lives. Every day I run, document, and share, is a step towards the dream: 40,075km, over 4,292 consecutive days, £1,000,000 raised.

The more people I reach, the more money we raise, the more children’s lives we save. That’s why, if this storey resonates—if you believe in the power of running, community, and giving children every possible chance—please share, subscribe, and support.

Questions? Comments? Let’s Inspire Each Other!

If you’re a parent, runner, teacher or simply care about kids’ wellbeing—drop a thought below. I respond to every relevant question and love hearing about your running journeys too.

Stay positive, stay happy—see you on tomorrow’s run, and thanks for being part of something bigger.

Let’s run the world—and change it for children. One step at a time.