Running is not big in my family. My wife has run a few half marathons, but vowed never to run them again. Both of my boys are a little young and lose interest quickly. Even though I’m running solo in my family, I’ve come up with a few ideas to keep the family active and finding ways to connect with different activities.
Figure Out Their Interest
Imagine running together with your family. You all are putting on the miles, and keeping together stride for stride. All the matters is finishing faster than your fastest previous time. After long runs, the family reflects on the day’s training run, that nasty hill at mile 9, and how you lost steam the last mile. All of this is definitely fake and I would not want any of this to be a reality. I run to train for a race, to escape things for a little while, and to stay fit and healthy. Forcing running on anyone is not anything I want for my family.
I spent this weekend in a fun run race with my oldest. He’s probably a little young to run more than a half mile, but we signed up to have fun. We ended up walking the entire way and I had to carry him during parts. The time together is something I will never forget. I knew going into this event this would be the case. Having those expectations up front were critical.
It’s about Learning What’s Important
Think about ways to connect with your family on running. If running doesn’t work, look for some other activity that we be appreciated by others. Consider these ideas:
- Not all Running Events are for Time or Medals – the fun run I did with my son was all about him. It didn’t matter if we finished in a certain time. All that mattered was to spend time together, try something new, and have fun. Look for fun costumes or themes to make it more exciting.
- Activities beyond Running can Mean More – my wife likes hiking and walking. Exercise doesn’t have to be intense or heart-pounding. It can be as simple as a walk through a neighborhood and a conversation. Trying alternative activities can mean so much for your family.
- Running Solo in My Family – this isn’t bad, it just means your family has tried and not quite enjoyed it as much as you. Or maybe they enjoy it in a different way. My son is more excited about watching people, talking to me, or the snacks at the end of the fun run.
Running Solo in My Family Works Out for Me
Some hobbies are meant to be shared and others shared in different ways. It doesn’t bother me that my family doesn’t run with me. It doesn’t matter if my sons never find interest in it. The only thing I care about is figuring out what’s important to them and give them an opportunity to try. I may be running solo, but I’m not running solo for long. Have fun out there!