Running is just about the simplest form of exercise there is, and it’s perfect for kids’ seemingly endless energy and need for speed.
Kids can run outdoors or inside: in a gym, down a hallway, or even around (and around, and around) a large table. Running can also be combined with other moves into active games, like relay races.
Change things up while running: Vary movement patterns by having kids switch from running to skipping, or try running in place with feet very close to the ground (this is called “fast feet”).
Kids can also run with high knees (lifting alternating knees toward the chest with each step) or “butt kicks” (kicking alternating heels toward the buttocks with each step).
Changes of direction (side-to-side or reverse) work both muscles and the brain, improving kids’ coordination.