Teachers and staff from participating schools and organizations include a run as part of physical education class periods (or before/after school programs) per week and are asked to document progress from each youth participant and submit once they reach 25.2 miles. The running regimen begins with one mile completed per week and increases incrementally to 2.5 miles.

By running multiple times per week, kids will complete the required mileage amounting to the 25.2 miles in 15 weeks, with the Final Mile taking place at the Life Time Chicago Spring Half Marathon & 5K.

The Kids Run Chicago program will provide the following to all participating schools and organizations:

• Program instructions and participation waiver
• Running Logs
• Training Calendar
• Training Outline
• Nutrition Resources
• Promotional Poster
• Informational brochure
• Digital tracking capability

Participation of each youth participant is encouraged Monday through Friday:

• Provide opportunity to complete the weekly mileage (suggested four days a week)
• Take attendance on provided running logs
• Motivate kids to run on their own at home
• Incorporate additional health and fitness tips to complement the program

Participating schools and organizations are given the opportunity to be recognized for their desire to help promote a worthwhile cause — fitness and physical education. Media exposure for the program and the Life Time Chicago Half Marathon & 5K reaches the entire Chicagoland area.

There is a minimal level of commitment needed from the schools/organizations to make this program a success. During the program, some sites may be asked to host pep rallies and other events to recognize those that are participating.

Life Time Athletic Events created the program with emphasis on helping students stay healthy and feel confident when accomplishing challenging goals. Recent studies show a distinct positive correlation between grades and physical activity. They may have more in common with each other than we may realize. Influencing the physical and mental health of young people in a positive direction is a step toward reshaping the future. The opportunity to help shape our leaders of tomorrow can make a world of change.