Why your kids don’t know how to run faster
It's amazing how much joy kids get from running, whether it's chasing a ball, playing tag, or competing in school sports! As a parent, I've always wanted to help my own kids improve, and I know many of you are searching for ways to teach your 8-year-olds or 11-year-olds how to run faster. It’s a common goal, and what I've learned is that often, there’s one huge mistake parents and even some young athletes make that holds them back. The biggest mistake I often see? Kids trying to run faster by simply running harder without understanding proper technique. They just push themselves without focusing on efficiency! It’s like trying to pedal a bike faster without knowing how to shift gears. This isn't just about raw power; it's about smart movement. Fixing this mistake is key to unlocking their true speed potential. So, how can you help your kids, from those energetic 8-year-olds to budding 11-year-olds, master the art of running faster? It boils down to a few fundamental techniques that are surprisingly simple to teach and incredibly effective. 1. The Power of the Arm Swing: I remember watching my son run, and his arms were flailing everywhere! That's when I realized how crucial arm action is. Teach your child to pump their arms forward and back, not across their body. Imagine their elbows are glued at a 90-degree angle, swinging from shoulder to hip. This creates momentum and balance, directly translating to faster leg turnover. It’s a game-changer! 2. Efficient Leg Drive and Stride: Many kids think they need to take enormous strides, but that actually slows them down. Encourage them to focus on pushing off the ground powerfully rather than reaching too far forward. Think 'quick feet' rather than 'long steps.' Their knees should come up (but not excessively high) and their feet should land softly, directly under their hips, ready for the next powerful push. For 8-year-olds, make it a game: "Pop, Pop, Pop!" with their feet. For 11-year-olds, you can explain the mechanics a bit more. 3. Maintaining Good Posture: Another common observation I've made is kids either slouching or leaning back. A slight forward lean from the ankles (not the waist!) is ideal. This allows gravity to assist their forward motion. Their head should be up, eyes looking forward, not down at their feet. This isn't just about speed; it's also about preventing unnecessary strain. Fun Drills to Build Speed for Kids: "Red Light, Green Light" Sprints: A classic! Start slow, then sprint on "green light" cues. Great for practicing bursts of speed. Cone Drills: Set up a few cones and have them sprint between them, focusing on quick changes of direction and acceleration. Relay Races: Team up with family or friends. The competitive but fun nature naturally encourages faster running. Ladder Drills (or DIY Rope Ladders): These are fantastic for improving footwork, coordination, and quickness. You can find many patterns online, or even just lay ropes on the ground. Short Bursts & Rest: Instead of just long runs, focus on short, intense sprints (10-20 seconds) followed by adequate rest. This builds explosive power, which is vital for speed. Remember, the goal isn't just to make them run faster but to make them enjoy the process. Keep it playful, celebrate small improvements, and maintain a positive attitude. For 8-year-olds, it's all about fun and foundational movements. For 11-year-olds, you can introduce a bit more structure and explain the 'why' behind the drills. Consistency, even if it's just 10-15 minutes a few times a week, will yield amazing results. From my experience, seeing their confidence grow as they get faster is truly the best reward!
