It’s back-to-school season and there’s a lot to consider when it comes to after-school programming. Here are five reasons why Girls on the Run could be a great addition to your girl’s fall schedule:
1. Building Lasting Confidence
Studies show that girls’ confidence levels drop by 30% between the ages of 8 and 14. The “tween” years are a pivotal stage of development and, over the last decade, outside influences have made it even more difficult for girls to regain that lost confidence. Recent trends show worsening conditions – since 2017, the percentage of girls reporting confidence declined from 68% to just 55%.
At Girls on the Run, lessons are designed to build self-worth. Not only do activities help participants recognize their personal strengths, but our lessons also help girls find their inner star power and provide them with an understanding that their unique qualities are worth celebrating.
In a recent survey of GOTR participants, 96% say they are more confident because of doing Girls on the Run or Heart & Sole.
2. Making Movement Fun
In our increasingly digital world, physical activity for adolescents continues to decline. A statistic from WHO’s global study indicates that 85% of adolescent girls are physically inactive, meaning they do not meet the recommended minimum of one hour of physical activity per day. This makes afterschool programs that specifically incorporate physical activity even more impactful.
In a recent public health report, the U.S. Surgeon General reinforced the connection between physical activity and mental health. In that report, Girls on the Run is the only after-school program mentioned and is highlighted as a program where girls go to “learn life skills through interactive lessons and running games.”
And unlike traditional sports, at Girls on the Run, physical activity isn’t tied to competition or speed. Every participant is encouraged to find their own happy pace and activities can be modified to meet the needs of every girl, regardless of ability. Contrary to what our name might suggest, Girls on the Run is not a running program - it’s a positive, inclusive space for all girls.
3. Creating a Feeling of Community
Research shows that youth volunteerism has been associated with personal gains in self-esteem, social skills and educational outcomes. Additionally, volunteering teaches valuable skills such as communication, teamwork, creativity, problem solving and time management.
One of the most impactful components of the Girls on the Run curriculum is the emphasis on community service. During the season, each team spends time learning about community, empathy and giving back. Through teamwork and thoughtful conversation, each team crafts and implements a community impact project that is meaningful to them. While coaches help keep the project on track, it is the girls who take ownership of the planning and carrying out of all aspects of the project.
4. Developing Social Skills & Friendships
In a 2021-2022 National Survey of Children’s Health, 54% of 5th- and 6th- grade girls say that drama and fighting makes them dislike school, 67% of 5th- to 12th- grade girls report that most girls are in competition with one another, and 36% of 6- to 17-year-old girls were bullied, picked on, or excluded in 2021. Studies also show that feelings of loneliness have increased significantly for teen girls over the past two decades.
Girls on the Run brings together students from different classrooms, grade levels and sometimes even schools, creating opportunities to form new friendships and develop social skills. Lessons focus on cooperative skills and team building through a positive group setting with small teams to foster belonging and connectedness.
Through our research-based curriculum, participants learn firsthand how to create positive connections with parents and caregivers, teachers, peers and their communities.
5. Having a Blast
While skill-building is at the forefront of the Girls on the Run curriculum, our lessons weave fun activities and movement into every session. Research shows that fun is an essential element of learning, helping to keep kids engaged long enough to see real developmental benefits.
We are proud to share that, in a spring 2025 survey of program participants, 100% of survey participants agreed with the statement “I had fun at Girls on the Run/Heart & Sole.”
Registration is now open for the fall 2025 season of Girls on the Run. Find a location near you on our locations page today.