We Run This City marathon program: A school-community fitness program for underserved youth

We Run This City Marathon Program is an innovative community/school fitness program conducted by a multi-organization collaborative that engages inner-city youth to run/walk part of the Cleveland Rite-Aid Marathon, using two different training options: (a) accumulating 25 miles over 12 weeks, completing the last 1.2 miles on race day, or (b) training to participate in the 10k (6.2 miles). Students were assessed pre-training and post-race, including physical measurements (BMI,BP,waist-to-hip, fitness) and self-reported attitudes and behaviors via handheld computers. Analyses were conducted on total sample,by race option and weight status.

In 2009, 525 students formed 24 school-based teams. Of these, 361 (69%) completed both pre-and post-race assessments (mean age=12.9; 51% male, 75% African-American, 11% Hispanic, 4% Other Minority, 9% White). 26% of participants were overweight and 21% had elevated blood pressures at baseline. Post-race results revealed significant impact on physical, behavioral, cognitive outcomes, including decreases in elevated blood pressure (all groups; p<.001), waist-to-hip ratio (10k only; p<.001), increases in physical endurance (p<.001), and stable weight. Self-reported improvements were noted in perceived physical competence (10k, overweight only; p<.001), reduced exposure to at-risk peers (p<.001), reduced trouble in school (p<.001); increased family fitness support fitness (p<.01) and increased choice of active vs. sedentary activities (1.2 only;p<.05). No changes were observed in efficacy, grades, absenteeism, or future intentions. These results provide evidence that daily physical activity is crucial in the fight against obesity and consequences of sedentary lifestyles. Discussion will include recruitment and assessment strategies, in-school training challenges, and current improvements in the program.