It can be difficult to balance your training with the other demands of life. Between work, family, and other commitments, it can be challenging to find the time and energy to fit in your runs. But with a little bit of planning and commitment, it is possible to maintain a consistent running routine and still have a healthy work-life balance.
Here are a few tips for balancing life and running:
Set realistic goals
It’s important to be realistic about the amount of time and energy you can devote to your running. Setting overly ambitious goals can lead to burnout and disappointment. Instead, focus on achievable goals that will help you improve gradually over time. For example, if you are new to running, you might set a goal to run three times a week for 30 minutes each time, this can be increased as you start to find what works best for you.
Create a training schedule:
Scheduling your runs in advance can help you fit them into your busy life. Consider setting aside specific times each week for your runs and try to stick to your schedule as closely as possible. For example, you might plan to run on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 6:00am before work, or on Tuesday and Thursday evenings after dinner. This is a great way to ensure you are prepped mentally and physically for those planned runs. To make it even easier, you can use the training plans provided by Runna, which are tailored to your specific goals and schedule. Whether you’re training for an ultramarathon or just starting out, Runna offers a variety of plans that can help you stay on track and achieve your goals.
Train with a group or a friend:
Running with others can be a great way to stay motivated and make the most of your training time. Whether you join a local running group or train with a friend, having someone to run with can help you stay on track and make the most of your training. Having a training partner can also make your runs more enjoyable and even help with running technique, gear advice and fuelling tips.
Take care of yourself:
While training is important, it’s also important to prioritise your overall health and well-being in order to perform your best on the run. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and taking breaks when needed. For example, aim to get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night, drink enough water and eat a variety of nutritious foods to fuel your body for your runs.
Find ways to fit in shorter runs:
Sometimes life gets busier than expected and if you don’t have time for a long run, consider breaking up your training into shorter runs throughout the day or week. This can help you fit in the training you need without taking up too much time. For example, if you don’t have time for a 60-minute run, you might do two 30-minute runs instead.
Consider other training methods:
Incorporating other types of exercise into your routine can help you improve your running without adding additional stress to your body. Consider activities like cycling, swimming, or strength training to complement your running. For example, you might add a cycling workout to your routine once a week which can help improve your cardiovascular fitness without the added impact on your joints. Swimming can be great for recovery training also.
Don’t be too hard on yourself:
It’s important to remember that life can be unpredictable, and there will be times when you can’t fit in your runs as planned. It’s okay if you have to skip a run or take a break from training. Instead, focus on getting back on track as soon as you can. It’s okay to take a rest day or two if you need it.
By following these tips, you can find a healthy balance between your running and the other demands of life. Remember to be patient and consistent, and you’ll be on your way to achieving your running goals. It’s important to find a balance that works for you, as everyone’s needs and schedules are different. With a little bit of planning and flexibility, you can enjoy the benefits of running while still managing the other demands of life.
