I have an 11 year old son who loves to run. That is all he thinks abouts. He runs all the time inspite of his asthma getting in the way. How can I encourage him to train, without risking him over-doing it or hurting himself. I am not aware of a couch or program for children this young. But, I don't want him to give up on something he loves so much. Any advice would be great!

Ryan Hall

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I would tell you that asthma doesn't have to stop your son from becoming one of the greatest runners in the world. Gebreselasie, arguably the greatest distance runner of all time, has asthma, my wife is a pro runner and has asthma. I see a lot of pro runners taking their inhallers. I think the running, done in moderation of course, could make his longs stronger and make his asthma better. I would just recommend making sure he has the proper medications to make sure he is being safe when he runs.