Several years ago, I heard mention of a group called "Girls On the Run" and remember that I was intrigued and happy at the thought of this idea. All I really learned about this organization at the time was that it was for younger (primarily elementary) girls and it involved running, and thought that it would be a great to get involved in some facet. Well, as it happens. . . life got in the way; moving business locations, adding employees, writing for the coolest publication around ;) and the idea subconsciously faded away. That is until recently!

A few months ago, a good friend and regular class go-er, Karen Roberson, mentioned to me that her adorable daughter Amelia was in this group at her school St. Joan of Arc. So, I did a little investigating as to what exactly GOTR is all about. It basically spans a period of 10-12 weeks, and typically held after school. Their website explains their mission a lot better that I could: " The program is designed to allow every girl to recognize her inner strength, the Girls on the Run curriculum inspires girls to define their lives on their own terms. Throughout the season, the girls make new friends, build their confidence and celebrate all that makes them unique. The Girls on the Run lessons encourage positive emotional, social, mental and physical development. Participants explore and discuss their own beliefs around experiences and challenges girls face at this age. They also develop important strategies and skills to help them navigate life experiences. Then, we look at the importance of team work and healthy relationships. And, finally, the girls explore how they can positively connect with and shape the world. Physical activity is woven into our program to inspire an appreciation of fitness and to build habits that lead to a lifetime of health. At the end of each three-month session, the girls participate in a Girls on the Run 5k event. This celebratory, non-competitive event is the culminating experience of the curriculum. Completing the 5k gives the girls a tangible understanding of the confidence that comes through accomplishment as well as a framework for setting and achieving life goals. Crossing the finish line is a defining moment when the girls realize that even the seemingly impossible IS possible."

After reading this, I was determined to check it out and mentioned to Karen that I would like to attend a session. So, one day I walked over with her (all of one block from my home) and sat on the floor in a circle with about 12 young girls who I could tell were thinking "Who the heck is she?" but not in a bad way. The topic of that day was "community" and how to maintain a healthy relationship in the various communities. The girls were very insightful and I was impressed by their mature yet playful discussion. I then introduced myself and talked about how their group is a great example of a community in that they are all working together to accomplish a goal. You see females can often work against each other and this group was so inspiring as they had mutual respect for each other and were each others' cheerleaders!

Now to my FAVORITE part. . . I whispered to the teacher/group leader that I would like to warm them up before their training run, and they were so excited! I had a blast leading those little whipper snappers. . . jumps, lunges, mountain climbers, squats. It was quite amusing to see some of these young girls complain more than my older clients! At the end we had a group hug and high fives and I walked home with a huge smile on my face. 😄 If you have a young daughter, I would highly recommend looking into this program. It would be an experience they would never forget and will likely lead to a framework of positive habits and beliefs. Take it from Amelia Roberson herself (at the time in third grade), "Girls on the Run was an awesome experience! I joined together with a group of girls because I wanted to get great exercise. The activities were fun and motivated us to reach goals we set for ourselves. Everyone was always cheering for you and our coaches were so nice and fun. Most importantly we learned to believe in ourselves." Hmmmm pretty sure I wasn't this intuitive in third grade. . .

I love this picture because it truly embodies the unique personalities of the girls!