Let's Run Like a CHEETAH

In each session, there will be 6-12 children working with a cheetah guide.  This will allow the needs of each child to be met.   Our cheetah guides are former or current teachers who love working with kids and believe in the powerful impact of exercise on children. 

Each session will begin with a 2 minute mindfulness activity, such as breathing in and out and focusing on their breath.   This time allows the children to relax, get focused and be ready for their next challenge.  A calm mind helps the children stay positive, balance their emotions, helps them be productive, and alleviates anxiety. 

The children will set a goal for the session.  Goals are great motivators  and gives the children a purpose for their running activity.  Some goals could be running for 2 minutes nonstop, making a new friend, to try their best,  or a goal to have fun.  When children set a goal, this helps them focus and it increases their confidence in themselves and their abilities. 

Children will stretch their arms, legs, and bodies.  Stretching out before running is beneficial for your muscles.  Stretching helps prepare the muscles to engage and improves their flexibility. Stretching gets your body ready to run.

After stretching, the children are ready to run.  The children will learn the basics of running and building stamina through a variety of activities, such as running for a minute and walk for a minute, running around cones, having relay races, and completing an obstacle course. A variety of activities will keep the children engaged while focusing on their goal.

After the running activity, the students will stretch and cool down.  Stretching will prevent the muscles from getting sore and it relaxes the muscles.  During the stretching, the students will reflect on how they did during the session. 

At the end of each session, each child will reflect on their goals.  When a child reaches their goal, it builds confidence and boosts their self-esteem.   The session will end on a positive note and children will be ready to go back to class to focus and learn or go home to relax.