The Summer Inspiration Program of the Putnam County Charter School System provides local children with a wide range of options, including arts and science, reading, cooking, and now, Running Your Personal Best.
“I love running, and I love to teach the kids the ins and outs of it,” said Putnam County Middle School cross-country coach Jakacha Nelson on why she wanted to organize this particular camp.
“In this camp, we teach how to pace ourselves running a long or a short distance or whatever the goal is,” she explained. “Running goes for all sports. It can prepare you for any sport you want to participate in.”
Nelson suggested it’s best to start training during the summer because once competitive sports seasons begin, students will already know how to run properly. The camp includes a few members of her track team, several soccer players, and some kids who never previously played sports.
Among other things, campers run a timed mile. According to Nelson, any time under 10 minutes is a great result, especially for someone not used to running longer distances.
“You have to keep your pace when you are doing a long distance,” said camper Alexis Evans. She said she could run before, but her running skills improved at the camp. “I went out of breath quickly, but now I know how to do it right.”