Sole Train fosters mentorship, goal-setting, and community-building through noncompetitive running 1-3 times a week, after school, at 5-10 Boston Public Schools and community center sites each year. The program helps build resilience and mental well-being, helps combat deficit thinking, and empowers youth with leadership skills.
TBC provides curriculum, recruitment support, running gear, and access to community races. Sole Train sites coordinate recruitment, program space, and Old Sole/site coordinators to operate weekly practice.
In his book, Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, Dr. John Ratey notes that “when students…go for (even) a mile run in gym, they are more prepared to learn in their (other) classes: their senses are heightened; their focus and mood are improved; they’re less fidgety and tense; and they feel more motivated and invigorated.” “The population segments of youth with lowest levels of physical activity and fitness also have least access to school-based physical activity opportunities and resources.” (Basch, 2011)
