Source: Central New Jersey.com
Children ages 2-14 have the opportunity to “run for fun” through the Healthy Kids Running Series.
The Healthy Kids Running Series (HKRS), a nationwide initiative that promotes active and healthy lifestyles, has returned for the Fall of 2022.
Scores of enthusiastic participants gather to compete in friendly competition. The event consists of different races that range from a 50-yard dash to a one-mile run.
Coordinator Elizabeth Coccia explained that the event is an open invitation for all families to enjoy. In addition to learning about healthy activities, the initiative also aims to develop character and cultivate stronger communities.
“Of course, everyone loves cheering for their own kids, but I think it’s important that every parent cheers for every kid,” Coccia says. “Last spring, our runners came from 28 towns. So many of them don’t see each other outside of race weeks, but or an hour or so, we are one little running community.”
As an information technology consultant, Coccia knew that it would be easy to develop a sedentary lifestyle and wanted to set an example of healthy living for her children: “It is important to lay the groundwork early because as you get older, it becomes harder to fit movement into your day. When my kids see my husband and I making time for exercise and activities, I think it impresses the importance of how beneficial an active lifestyle is.”
Co-Community Coordinator Lauren Keating adds, “I was drawn to HKRS both as a parent and volunteer for its ability to promote exercise in a positive environment I instantly fell in love with the nonprofit’s mission and when the chance to continue the East Brunswick chapter presented itself, I jumped at the opportunity.”
Keating further explained that the exercise is not only fun, but beneficial for the development of motor skills and coordination in younger participants. She stated that running is the core part of many sports and fitness activities. Thus, making it important for children to practice and enjoy.
The initiative began on Sept. 11 and will continue on Sept. 18, Sept. 25, Oct. 2 and Oct. 9 at East Brunswick High School. For those interesting in racing, pre-registration is required to participate on any selected race day. To register, visit https://runsignup.com/hkrseastbrunswick