Home | ADVICE: Training | Carol's Page (Editor) - Fun Runs, Integrating Running with the Curriculum, Getting Started | Ed's Page (Coach) - Track, XC, Form, Teamwork | INFORMATION: Distance: How Far Should Kids Run? | Running Games | Distance Conversion Tool | 10 Healthy-Kid Tips | MODEL KIDS' PROGRAMS: Happy Feet, Healthy Food Kids' Club - Carol's After-School Club | Youth Programs with Links | Kiddie Mile Ribbon Program | Log-A-Mile Blue Ribbon Program | STUFF: Free Running Bookmarks | Resources: Books for Kids, Parents, and Coaches | SIGN IN: Guest Book | EVENT LISTINGS: Kids' Fun Run Calendar | MORE: School | News | Columns |Speakers/Guest Authors | Who We Are | Contact SPIKES by Coach Ed Poirier March 23, 2008 Dear Ed, My teenage daughter is a competitive runner. She has been wearing Asics Nimbus shoes for both cross-country and track (400 and 800). It has been suggested that she wear spikes for her track races. Is it recommended to wear spikes for an age 14 girl in the 800? Thanks for your help, Parent Hi Parent, Sure spikes are okay at 14. All I recommend is that she does not train in them. A 400/800/mile spike has minimum cushion - much but just for races it is fine. There is also a positive physiological benefit for most athletes wearing spikes. When they slip on that race only shoe they know they are about to do something special. It's not a regular practice. In the 800 that could be good for a couple of seconds. Good question. Thank you, Coach Ed Coach Ed is a Youth Fitness Specialist with the Attleboro YMCA. The Attleboro (Massachusetts) YMCA is the first YMCA in the nation to embark on a healthy youth initiative. rwedit@rodale.com