After coaching Girls On The Run for elementary-age girls, Ashley Armistead could not wait for her boys to have a similar opportunity: an after-school running program that offered a safe space where they could be themselves, express their fears and dreams, and feel the power of being connected to others through positive, healthy communication.
“I have always believed that running develops happier and healthier children,” says Ashley. “It demands that you bring your best attitude and a positive spirit. Running does not respond to status or appearance, just a big heart and good energy.”
But as her boys approached third grade Ashley realized that such a program did not exist. She knew it was up to her to start a boys’ running club if her sons were going to have the type of experience that she wanted for them. Luckily, there were many talented people in Charlotte who shared her dream. Now in its third full year, Let Me Run is planning to expand to the Triangle area in 2013.
As a parent it was hard for Ashley to sit back and watch the “Boy Code” in action. In third grade her son had been accused of wearing Barbie underwear by a coach and had been called a lady by another coach. When her youngest son was in second grade he was scared of the teasing if he admitted that he got an invitation to a girl’s birthday party. Too many times on the playground, at playgroups, or at school she heard, “Boys will be boys,” or “Too much testosterone in the room.” The comments shocked Ashley since she knew that her boys surpassed her in their caring actions, integrity and self-control.
“I became more aware of societal expectations of boys and of men,” says Ashley. “From the ball fields to the office, limiting messages are being sent to males. You have heard them: Grow up, be a man, suck it up, big boys don’t cry, don’t be a sissy, don’t act like a girl, and always be in control!”
Ashley learned that researchers have found that male infants are actually more emotionally expressive than female babies, but by age 5 or 6, boys are less likely to express fear, despair, hurt and vulnerability because of a “toughening up” process. Boys are as much the product of nurture as nature. Ashley wondered if her caring, compassionate and tough boys would be able to stay spirited and full of wonder with these cultural challenges.
Running can help prevent and treat chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Regular aerobic exercise can increase the rate of learning and the capacity for memory, thus improving academic performance. Running also increases dopamine, which decreases depression, fights addiction and improves focus.
Let Me Run is a nonprofit program aimed at strengthening boys in body and spirit. Their mission is to encourage boys to stay on track and live to their full potential by inspiring healthy friend, family and community relationships. Let Me Run uses the power of running and lively group activities to equip boys with tools to lead a balanced and fulfilling life – emotionally, physically, mentally, socially and spiritually.
For more information or questions please visit www.letmerun.org, or contact Lori Klingman at lori@letmerun.org or Paul G. Martino at paul@letmerun.org
