The kids (5 and 3) want to run with me - how far is sensible?

[addictedtosugar]

So, I started C25K last year, and have been keeping up with running a couple of times a week.

Last week, the 5 yr old asked if he could come running with me, so I said "at the weekend" thinking he's forget. Yesterday the Times seems to suggest you shouldn't run with under 9's - they should be doing more stop start running rather than getting a distance under their belt.

But DS1 asked again today, so we did 2km, with him taking the lead on pace - I suggested walking to warm up, and then we could do a mixture of jog, sprint and walk. He really enjoyed it. Is doing this, when he is so keen, a problem?

And what about the 3 yr old who also wanted to come? We went out after I got back with his older brother, but we did less than 1km, and he ran (in a fashion) or walked it all - again all his pace. Again, he enjoyed it

Is this sort of stuff going to cause long term issues, if I only do it when they ask? Oldest wants to go again. Not sure the younger one will push, but if big brother goes, he might want to....

Anyone got any ideas about distances that are sensible for a 5 or 3 yr old?

Cheers

I've just discovered a local park run for 4-14 year olds which is 2km if that helps! Could 3yo go by bike?

There is actually no research on whether it is bad or good for kids to run 5k+. The junior parkrun people believe it is not bad and are commissioning some research to try to find out... but obviously it will be years before they have any results on the long term effect.
Do not believe anybody who says it is bad for growing young children though because nobody can know this, there is absolutely no evidence.

Mine would have done that if I was a runner! 2k sounds about right - if they are happy doing it then it should be ok?!

If I were in your position is go to a park and do intervals. Then they can do as many as they want.

Thank-you. The park run info is really interesting, musuemum
I too was pretty much of the opinion if they are enjoying it, and taking control of the pace, its not actually that different to e.g. football.

Maybe I should go off road tho, to be easier on their joints?

3 yr old on a bike is faster than I can run!