You don't need to be a track star to participate in the RCMP Girls' Run for Fun program.
In fact, you don't even need to run.
Walkers are welcome too, and of the 60 or so girls who laced up their shoes for last year's version, an even 10 opted for the low-impact form of exercise.
"Some girls will never run," Linda Parker, one of the program's coordinators, said Thursday.
"This program is more about encouragement and building self esteem and creating a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere for young women."
There are still spaces available as the program gets going this Tuesday. It's open at no cost to girls ages 10 to 15 years old and they meet twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. at the Fort George Park band shell area.
It runs for seven-week weeks and culminates in a five-kilometre run - and walk - at Fort George Park on June 21.
Each session begins with a speaker who will discuss important issues girls are facing including social media safety; bullying; nutrition; personal safety; and drug and alcohol awareness.
"Girls are very social, it's never, never just about running," Parker said. "It's a social event, actually."
They then split up into groups based on their abilities and take to the pavement.
"If you are just not comfortable running, then your are in a walking group and that's OK too.
"As long as you're moving, we're OK with that," Parker said.
That said, the walkers will get their exercise.
"We'll still challenge them, we ask them to challenge themselves," Parker said. "We treat the girls with respect and we ask for the same in return.
"It's a great atmosphere, it's very comfortable with an emphasis on fun."
Those interested are encourage to drop by the new Prince George RCMP detachment at 455 Victoria St. to register at the community policing office. They can also simply show up at the start of a session at the Fort George Park bandshell where registration forms will be provided.
And while it starts on Tuesday, Parker said there have always been late registrants in each of the last four years the program has been held. There is no cost, Parker stressed.
For more information, call 250-561-3366.
