Over 130 girls are participating in the fall 2014 season of Girls on the Run – a 12 week program that helps 3rd to 8th grade girls find their self-confidence through running, which teaches them mental toughness, patience and perseverance. The grand finale is Nov. 22, where girls from 13 Chattanooga area locations will meet at Lee University to run a 5K together, and experience the success of their hard work and dedication.
The girls attend 90 minute lessons twice a week, either before or after school, where they spend equal time focusing on running and building self-esteem. With each lesson, the girls learn different aspects of healthy living such as standing up for themselves, leading with an open heart and positive body image, and at the end, they encourage each other to complete a distance goal they previously set for themselves.
“At any age, the lessons to fight negative self-talk, fearlessly try new things, and boldly stand up for our beliefs are valuable,” said Lanette Young, coach at Boyd Buchanan. “Once a girl learns to value herself as a strong, beautiful individual, she will be able to face the future with confidence and poise.”
At the beginning of the program, running 3.1 miles is seemingly impossible, but through the program the girls kindle a passion to complete what they have started. "The race at the end gives them a challenge to conquer; it activates their limitless potential, which translates into other areas of their lives such as academics or relationships. The race truly opens the doors to their bright futures," officials said.