Our Youth Cross Country program is designed for kids ages 5-14 years old who enjoy running and want to improve their overall athletic ability. With meets held on a variety of terrain—including trails, hills, and grass—runners build endurance, coordination, and agility in a supportive environment.

Each practice includes targeted drills, warm-ups, and stretching to develop proper running technique and increase flexibility. Whether your child runs competitively or simply wants to stay active, these skills translate to success across all sports!

Practices are Mondays & Wednesdays from 5:30pm-6:30pm at your choice of one of the following locations (select your site at time of registration):

• Hillsdale Park (Behind South Y)
• Hobble Creek Park (Behind West Y)
• Camels Back Park (Downtown Boise)
• West Park (Behind West Middle School in Nampa)

Meets are every Wednesday starting Sept 16th from 5:30-7:00pm

1. Sept 16 @ West Park **this meet will be at 6:30pm
2. Sept 23 @ Camel’s Back
3. Sept 30 @ Hobble Creek
4. Oct 7 @ Hillsdale
5. Oct 14 @ Camel’s Back
6. Oct 21 @ Hobble Creek

Race Distances at meets:    

Ages 5-9 yrs will run 1000 meters (.6 mi)
Ages 10-14 yrs will run 2000 meters (1.2 mi)

Cost: 

$60 for YMCA Members, $125 for Non-Members

Questions? Email [email protected]

Looking for a high-energy way to keep kids active through the winter months? Our Youth Indoor Running & Conditioning program at the West YMCA is an engaging opportunity for kids ages 5–12 to build strength, improve agility, and stay fit all while having a blast & making new friends!

Participants meet twice weekly on Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays, using our indoor track and program space for a variety of games, drills, and fun-focused conditioning.

*This is a great introduction to athletic movement and teamwork, designed to support general fitness rather than specific track events.

All equipment is provided—just bring water and a positive attitude. Whether your child is new to running or already dreaming of spring sports, this program is an exciting way to stay active and build confidence!

Sessions are capped at 25 kids each

Locations & Times:

• West YMCA
  • Mondays & Wednesdays: 4:30-5:30pm
  • Tuesdays & Thursdays: 6-7pm
• Caldwell YMCA
  • Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:15-6:15pm

Session Dates:

• Session 1: November 30 – Dec 29 (no practice Dec 23 & 24)
• Session 2: January 4 – January 28
• Full Program: Nov 30 – Jan 28 (no practice Dec 23, 24, 30, or 31)

Parents and Guardians will need their ID to enter the facility

For any questions, contact Alex at [email protected] or (208) 344-5502 x280

Our Advanced Winter Track program consists of flexibility exercises, strength training sessions, form drills, and aerobic exercises designed to prepare participants for their 2027 Outdoor Track and Field seasons!

Our coaching staff is knowledgeable and passionate about track and field. We can help you achieve your goals – whether it is preparing for the high school or junior high/middle school seasons this spring, competing at Regionals and Nationals, or staying conditioned for other sports.

Training Includes:

• Outdoor practices: 3x/week at TBD (days/times still TBD also)

Coaching is available for the following events: sprints, hurdles, distance, throws, long/triple jump, and high jump.

Optional Competitions: Team Idaho plans to attend 1-2 indoor meets, including the Simplot Games Feb 18-20, 2027 in Pocatello. These are not required to attend, but are encouraged. *Note that Simplot Games are only eligible for those in 9th-12th grades, and individual meet registration fees are not included in YMCA program fees

For athletes ages 12 and up who are ready to move beyond the basics. Prior Track & Field experience is REQUIRED.

SESSION DATE OPTIONS:

1. Full session (12 weeks): Nov 30- Feb 20
2. Session 1 (6 weeks): Nov 30 – Jan 8
3. Session 2 (6 weeks): Jan 11 – Feb 20

Be sure to dress for the weather – we practice in sun, rain, & snow!

Cost:

• 12 week Session: Member: $150; Non-Member: $320
  • Financial Aid is available for YMCA Members!
• 6 week Session: Member: $75; Non-Member $160

For any questions, contact Alex at [email protected] or (208) 344-5502 x280