Distance or Speed first?

[bikermaze]

Try a balance of walk/run covering varying distances of increasing increments throughout the program. Walk to start off then run and back to walk so you can build up the tempo amongsts the girls. Though it has to be taught to them that you're not supposed to run right away as it's going to cause unnecessary pain and tiring out easily.

Distance should be your measure of getting by first then speed next. Especially when you're starting out. Speed being a major factor above distance should be the concern of those who want to take things more seriously, as far as I'm concerned. However if it's for leisure and simply allowing them to enjoy exercise as it is, distance would be a good measure to consider first off.

Running with the dogs sounds fantastic! Your story is quite inspiring.