Active Play “Kids to 5K”: The 1% Better Approach to Building Kids’ Confidence Through Running

Episode 5 of Active Play, Every Day opens with a sobering reality: childhood obesity rates have tripled since the 1960s. 

Dr. Emily sits down with Sherry White, Executive Director of GO FAR, to explore how something as simple as running can transform far more than physical health. It builds confidence, reshapes mindset, and creates meaningful community connections, giving kids a stronger foundation for life.

Inside this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why running is simply the vehicle, and how it builds confidence, resilience, and goal-setting skills
• How the “1% better” approach keeps kids motivated and makes big goals feel achievable
• Why movement supports not just physical health, but mental health, focus in school, and stronger relationships
• What starting from zero actually looks like, even if your child (or you) doesn’t see themselves as a “runner”
• How community and shared experiences make active play stick for families

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps the show reach more families.

This podcast is sponsored by Nex Playground, an active play gaming system that helps kids move indoors through full-body games that support learning, coordination, and joy.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.