Marathon Kids is a flexible and inclusive program that encourages kids of all ages to set and achieve running goals, build healthy habits, and experience the joy of movement.
But what if you have participants outside the traditional K–12 range? Let’s break down who can participate and how to organize your roster:
Can Teachers and Adults Participate?
Absolutely! We love seeing coaches, teachers, parents, and school staff model healthy habits by joining the fun.
This practice, known as Modeling the Way, is one of Marathon Kids' core pillars. Adults who want to run, scan laps, and track their own progress can be added to your club.
How to Add Adults or Non-Student Runners
When adding participants to your Marathon Kids roster, select "Other" from the grade options. This designation allows anyone beyond 12th grade—including teachers, staff, volunteers, and parents—to be active participants.
Each adult, non-student runner, or runner past 12th grade can have their own QR code to scan laps and track their mileage in person during club time.
What is "Other/O"?
"Other" (sometimes listed as "O") is a flexible category designed for participants who have either graduated or don’t fall into the standard K–12 structure.
Use this for staff members, parents, volunteers, or students who have already passed 12th grade but still want to be involved.
Supporters vs. Runners
Supporters can be added to your Marathon Kids club to help track progress, cheer on students, scan QR codes, and celebrate milestones
If supporters want to actively run and scan their own QR code, they’ll need to be added to the roster as "Other."
Supporters will have access to help you scan ID cards and scan their own ID card if they choose to participate in the program.
Reporting and Filtering Options
The miles earned by this group of participants will be included in your total overall mileage that is reflected on your Impact dashboard.
When generating reports and filtering data on the impact dashboard, coaches can choose to either include or exclude participants in the "Other" category.
This makes it easy to separate student progress from adult involvement, keeping your club’s data clear and organized.
By creating an environment where everyone—students, teachers, and parents alike—can work toward fitness goals together, your club fosters a strong, active community.
Whether they’re in kindergarten, high school, or beyond, there’s a place for everyone in Marathon Kids!
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