RABBITS AND HOUNDS Warm up with fun alternative to laps Josh Cox Boston Marathon, 2001/Carol Goodrow Click on Photo for Printable Poster Jump to Game Directions Note from the Editor: As a elementary school student teacher, Josh Cox had his kids play this game. He made running fun for kids. Josh and KR agree that running should be fun for kids and never used as punishment. Running is actually an exciting reward, when presented in the form of a game. THE GAME Get ready for some wild fun 1. Choose 3 or 4 of the faster students to start out as the hounds. The rest of the class are rabbits. 2. Send the rabbits out for one lap around the field or gym. 3. Once they get a lead, let the hounds loose by yelling, "Go get those Rabbits!" or "The Hounds are loose!" 4. The hounds try to pass as many rabbits as they can pass in one lap. 5. Anyone who didn't get caught (passed) will become the hound. Usually the guys would start HOWLING as they ran off.   WAYS TO MAKE KIDS LOVE TO RUN Emphasize fun. Here are some tips from the editor: 1. Play your favorite games often. 2. Other times be creative. Change the rules. 3. Invite another class to join you for your favorite game. 4. After the game, present your visitors with kid-made rabbit and hound ribbons as a keepsake. ON GOING INSIDE Hydrate, stretch, write, and have a great snack! Think healthy, think strong. Try some baby carrots dipped in honey with a couple of low-fat triscuits. Run and Journal You may print these forms to record your running experience. LINKS FOR YOU More Running Games Other games to use or adapt www.kidsrunning.com/krschoolgames.html Resource Page Books www.kidsrunning/things.html Have fun, get psyched, and put your running into your play. Thanks to marathoner Josh Cox for sharing his favorite game with KidsRunning.Com. Visit joshcox.com to learn more about Josh. Email Josh at josh@usidr.org. Look for Josh at the 2004 Olympics. It's his goal to be part of the U.S. team. Email goodrow@infionline.net