How far should kids run?

[Leanne]

So, now that we are done with our tri's, my hubby and I like to do some fall/winter running races. Because our daughter has shown such an interest in the triathlons, I thought I'd see if I could get her interested in just plain old running. But how far should an 8 year old run? Right now, she can do 2k non-stop, talking the whole way, and still have lots left at the end to do a 100m or so sprint (and kick my butt). I don't think it would be difficult to get her up to 5k (assuming I can keep her interested) but is that ok for her young body?

Your thoughts and opinions are appreciated!!   

[Sandy]

There are differing opinions on this but think about what we used to do as kids.  Start the day out running and didn't stop until the sun went down.  As long as you employee the same common sense for increasing her distance as you would for yourself...no more than 10% per week and you allow her to run or walk as she sees fit, she should be able to run 5k.  Listen to her cues about being tired or sore and act on them quickly by changing some runs to swims or do a Mom and me Yoga/stretch class.

[Leanne]

Thanks Sandy, that's good advice, and along the lines I was thinking.

When I think of what I used to do as a kid, there was always a horse involved!! So my 5k then was FAST!!