How far should a 12 yr old start running cross country 3 x a week?

Question

A new coach recommends 10 yr olds and up to start at 1mile 3x a week thats 1600 metres. Seems excessive to me

Answer 1

Well when I first started cross-country my freshman year in high school I was 14 and never ran before in my life and on our first practice we did 5 miles. For you, 1 mile would be a good starting point. You should easily be able to get your self to 2 or 3 miles after several weeks of hard work. Don't think its impossible, Ive seen kids your age do the half-marathon which I can't even do (though I think that's a little excessive for being only 12)

Answer 2

If the child is new to running than she should start with whatever distance she can run comfortably three times per week, and build up to one mile three times per week.  She could also perform one mile of a combination of running and walking until she can run the whole mile.  If the child can already run one mile without pain during or after the run than one mile three times a week is reasonable.  

FYI, I am an exercise physiologist with experience in youth athletics.

Answer 3

that is just rite and the coach knows what to do. started cross country when i was 8 years old and i did like 1 1\2 miles 3x a week

Answer 4

Well, i did cross country myself about the same age. first you want to figure out which event. if long distance then you want to mark yourself at a mile (or the distance you run). now its important make sure you time yourself.  if a shorter distance you would still want to at least 2 mile runs a week and then maybe sprints. also look into the leg weights so when you do compete it will feel much lighter.

Answer 5

half a mile i am in track so i should know. select as best answer pretty please with sugar on top!!

Answer 6

not really. I would say 3 miles 3x a week

Answer 7

whoa shes only 12...

that does seem like a lot to start off..

if she has never run before I'd say start with half a mile 3 times a week? Then when that's comfortable move up to a mile? but that doesn't seem like a very fun training schedule.. i would try to switch it up a little. Maybe go for timed runs instead of running for a set distance. Try running for 15 minutes straight and then work up to longer periods of time... try to build endurance to get her comfortable with running. That way when race day comes, the race will feel short. Good luck and remember shes only 12, make it fun!

Answer 8

im a 11 year old girl

i run 5 miles 3x a week

im just a average cross country runner

u should be able to run

at least 2 miles 3x a week

AT LEAST!!