In general, how many miles is it safe for an 11/12 year old (USATF Midget division) to run per week. Training has been geared for the 1500 and 3000. Any coaches or athletes have insight on what may have pushed the envelope resulting in injuries? Thanks.
Intensity, not training volume, will bring the injuries and burnouts.
Same as their age..11-12 miles per week until the summer before their freshmen year in HS.
I would say no more than 20 miles per week. So about 3 miles per day. Long run about 20-25 percent of total weekly mileage, so a 5 mile jaunt. Take one day rest and think long term versus need to see results now. Some tempo or fartlek running may spice it up, but I would stay clear of interval/speed work if looking to establish long-term base effect.