Groundbreaking Study Proves Let Me Run Increases Social Competence and Fosters Healthy Masculinity
August 28, 2017 by Let Me Run National
Research confirms the Let Me Run program creates positive change in boys to a statistically substantial degree.
Man up. Boys don’t cry. Don’t be a pansy. Boys hear these messages, and worse, on a daily basis. When the most praised emotions are anger, aggression and pride, the most likely outcomes are illness, addiction, and violence. This mandated performance of hyper-masculinity prevents close relationships by masking boys’ authentic selves. And it’s killing them. Ninety men in the U.S. commit suicide every single day, four of whom are boys under the age of 19. We have to break this Boy Code, and Let Me Run is doing just that.
Let Me Run is a nonprofit wellness program that inspires boys to be themselves, be active, and belong. With a comprehensive curriculum that applies the power of running, we encourage boys to develop their psychological, emotional and social health, in addition to their physical health. And we’re seeing results.
According to a recent independent evaluation by the Institute to Promote Athlete Health & Wellness of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Let Me Run significantly improves boys’ attitudes and behaviors associated with healthy masculinity, increases vigorous physical activity levels, improves social competence, and reduces screen time on school days.
The two-season evaluation also showed substantial improvements in Let Me Run participants’ ability to express emotions, show affection, build friendships and connect with others.
“Let Me Run nurtures the types of meaningful bonds and connections that can prevent the deadly epidemic of loneliness we’re seeing in society today,” states Let Me Run Founder Ashley Armistead. According to the Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, “loneliness is associated with increased risk of premature death, and the effect on mortality is comparable to impact of smoking or obesity.”
Armistead says, “Let Me Run gives boys permission to be compassionate, confident human beings with a full set of emotions. UNCG’s study backs our belief that through running and healthy communication, we can challenge society’s limiting Boy Code and inspire boys to live into their full, unique potential.”
Join the Let Me Run movement to break the Boy Code by becoming a coach.
