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HOME > News & Events > YMCA CNN Kids Marathon
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YMCA CNN Fit Nation Kids Marathon 

YMCA Kids Go the Distance!

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CNN Fit Nation is partnering with the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington to Train a Few Good Kids for the Marine Corps Marathon

Many kids cannot envision running a few city blocks, much less the 26.2 miles it takes to finish a marathon. Five years ago, when the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington began its youth wellness program, PHD (Physical, Healthy and Driven), kids clung stubbornly to their video games, television watching and junk food. But once kids took their first steps towards exercise, good nutrition and overall wellness, there was no turning back.

Today, YMCA PHD is one our most popular youth programs, and is helping a new generation of kids discover how empowering it is to be strong and healthy. Many of the same kids, once dedicated couch potatoes, are now ready to go the distance and cross the finish line during a special kids' day at the Marine Corps Marathon.

CNN Fit Nation and the YMCA have teamed up to put kids through their paces and prepare them for an Olympic-size challenge. Our youth wellness experts, along with some of the area's top running coaches, have put together a special ten-week training program. Over the course of the program, participants earn miles for various activities, and run a little further each week. The young marathoners will also learn about proper posture, nutrition and special stretching for runners. Each participant will receive a brand new pair of Brooks running shoes, and will run their last 1.2 miles to the finish line on Saturday, October 24, 2009 during the Marine Corps Marathon Healthy Kids Fun Run.

Designed to challenge, motivate and inspire future marathoners, the YMCA running program includes:

  •      Health and wellness assessments throughout the training program.
  •       Fun activities and exercises to supplement the running program, led by YMCA youth wellness experts.
  •       Special field trips and outings to beautiful running trails throughout the greater D.C. region.
  •       Healthy snacks and water at all training sessions.
  •       Free Brooks running shoes and free CNN Fit Nation/YMCA t-shirts for the day of the marathon.
  •       Power pasta dinner the day before the race and a YMCA kick-off pep rally.
  •       Awards ceremony with program sponsor CNN Fit Nation.

Sponsors:

                             

The YMCA would like to give special thanks to our generous sponsor, CNN Fit Nation. Thank you for helping us make Y kids stronger, healthier and happier.