Curriculum
Girls on the Run offers two programs:- Girls on the Run — for 3rd-5th graders
- Girls on Track — for 6th-8th graders
Curriculum Structure
Girls on the Run and Girls on Track are offered each fall and spring. Girls can participate in the program as many times as they like. The concept is that the girl’s experience is different each season due to the group dynamics and developmental levels. The curriculum has been developed by Girls on the Run International and is updated regularly.
Each meeting is structured as follows:
- The session begins with a getting-on-board and a warm-up activity that bring the girls’ focus onto the day’s topic.
- The warm-up is followed by a stretching routine that allows for a topic-related question and answer time.
- Then, during the workout period, the girls participate in a variety of running activities that utilize a game or a team goal.
- Afterwards, cool-down stretching is combined with a review and discussion of the day’s lesson that encourages participant questions.
- Each session closes with positive words from the girls’ coach regarding individual and group behaviors.
The principal philosophies and psychological research for both programs are the same, yet the depth of processing the topics varies with the two different curricula. Coaches can facilitate more targeted and age-appropriate discussion regarding certain topics (eating disorders, tobacco and alcohol use, personal/internet safety and harassment to name a few) with the middle school participants, whereas with the younger girls the discussion remains a bit more vague or may not occur at all.
Expectations
Girls on the Run promotes physical as well as emotional, mental and character development. The girls complete the program with a stronger sense of identity, a greater acceptance of themselves, a healthier body image and an understanding of what it means to be part of a team.