Sarah Coope, a former, world class triathlete, now runs the very successful Bodyworks XTC with her husband former international and top level coach, Glen Cook. The club, based in East Sussex, specializes in training children, and members include county and national champions, and Olympic hopeful for triathlon, Ollie Freeman. Here’s her tips…
SHOES
“Invest in good quality, cushioned shoes, (avoid lightweight ones) which support the foot and lessen impact. As bones are still developing this is the most important piece of equipment for children and should be checked regularly to make sure they are still fitting correctly. Avoid choosing second-hand shoes for running as each person has a different wear pattern.”
RF RECOMMENDS:
✱ Kids’ Brooks Adrenaline GTS, £40 supports without over-correcting keeping young feet health as they grow.
✱ New Balance, 759, £40 - one of the bestselling kids’ running shoes. This neutral shoe offers top-class performance and technology for kids as they run.
GEAR
“You don’t have to spend a fortune on kids. A comfortable stretchy pair of shorts and a breatheable T-shirt will do just as well. Boys should avoid wearing surf shorts as they restrict leg lift. For safety, invest in a high visibility jacket and for darker evenings wear some reflective tape, too.”
RF RECOMMENDS:
✱ Nike Dri Fit T-shirt, £12, www.store.nike.com
HYDRATION
“Like adults, kids need to stay hydrated. A small bottle holding approx 300ml of water, or a small soft drinks bottle, approx 500ml, is easy for smaller hands to manage!”
RF FAVOURITE:
BUFFERA HEADBANDS
✱ To keep their hair off their face, protect from the elements – and look pretty cool, too, why not treat your kids to a junior headband from Buffera? £21, www.buffwear.co.uk.