Inspiring the next generation of runners
Empowering kids to achieve their goals, one mile at a time.
About the marathon kids program
Marathon Kids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a program designed to combat youth inactivity by encouraging children to engage in regular physical activity through running. Since 1995, we have empowered kids of all abilities to set and achieve goals, fostering self-confidence and a love for movement.
Our flexible coaching model helps track laps, miles, and active minutes, making it perfect for before, during, or after-school activities. With a focus on holistic development, Marathon Kids creates lasting positive impacts on children's physical and mental well-being.
The Digital Platform
Experience the ease of tracking and celebrating student achievements with our user-friendly, digital platform for tracking student physical activity and progress. With a mobile scanning app for quick recording and a robust reporting dashboard, coaches can effortlessly customize programs, manage rosters, add miles or minutes, and celebrate milestones, making it simple to recognize student achievements.
Coaching the Next Generation
Our coaches come from all walks of life, including educators of all types, parent volunteers, PTA members, after-school program facilitators, and community organizational leaders. We believe all kids deserve an encouraging and motivated role model to lead the way.
Support the Program
Whether you're a coach, donor, sponsor, volunteer, or advocate—your contribution directly supports Marathon Kids to deliver a free, evidence-based program and award-winning technology to schools and communities that need us most.
Motivating Students is Easy with Marathon Kids
Create an Account
Receive access to the program by creating your free account
Set a Goal
Fuel motivation with club mileage goals and challenges for kids
Run
Kids track running progress easily by scanning ID cards
Celebrate
If you are a parent, then run this way to the Parent Page.
"The determination and joy my students exhibit when reaching their goals keeps me returning to Marathon Kids."
Stacey Shapiro, 1st Grade Teacher
Zilker Elementary School | Austin, Texas
Ready to get started?
Create your Marathon Kids account. It’s quick, easy, and FREE!
Empowering Girls Through Running
The Girls Movement is a dedicated running program designed to help 4th–8th grade girls build confidence, character, and connection through physical activity. This free program provides engaging lesson plans, fun running challenges, and a supportive community where girls can thrive.
Whether you're a PE teacher, coach, or mentor, Marathon Kids makes it easy to start and manage a Girls Movement club. With access to our digital platform, scanning app, and resource library, leading a club is simple, flexible, and impactful.
Help Keep Marathon Kids Running
Marathon Kids relies on the generosity of donors to keep the program running and in the hands of schools across the US!
Please consider donating directly to Marathon Kids to help provide free physical activity programs to the next generation of runners. Over 1,000 schools and 300,000 kids across the country use the Marathon Kids program to participate in a fun and effective approach to running and physical activity.
Together we can ensure a healthier future for our kids by promoting healthy habits and an active lifestyle!
Thank You to Our Program Sponsor
Marathon Kids is proud to partner with Brooks Running to get kids moving—
unlocking their potential one lap at a time, one day at a time.
Brooks is committed to advancing health and well-being in communities and making running open to all.