How to keep running consistently as a busy Mum

Running Consistently is a challenge for Mums

Returning to Running Postpartum is a multi layered affair and we’ve talked about the initial stages of that in our article “Postnatal Return to Running” . You would therefore  hope that once you are ‘up and running’ again and you’ve gotten into the swing of things with your carefully considered running routine, all would be well. So, it is frustrating when things upset your rhythm with life events such as school breaks, holidays and travel plans. And no matter how well established your routine is, these things prove challenging for all.

How can we adapt our running when life get’s busy?

Here are some key tips for when life get’s busy so that you can  stay active especially if you have an event you are training for. Then you can go and enjoy family time and special events with less stress.

Set times for your runs

If you have a certain time of day or days that you run then try to stick to that as much as you can. Keeping some sort of schedule will help you stay accountable to yourself and prevent indecision and procrastination.

I’m a big fan of morning exercise, especially during busy family times like the holidays. Mainly because I know that I’ll be enjoying a beverage come evening and if these activities coincide with the Summer months, it can be far too hot to run in the afternoon.

Bring your home routine with you

While I encourage a certain element of flexibility and relaxation while on say, a family  holiday, if you do have an event you are training for then keeping to a routine is going to help you reach your end goal.

Getting up at the same time and having a similar breakfast routine are examples of things you can do no matter where you are. These routines will signal to your mind and body that a run is coming and make it easier to stick to your training plan.

Even if you don’t have an event around the corner then keeping a routine will help you feel less out of whack.

Cross training helps running consistency

Cross training has always been your friend. But over busy periods it comes into its own!

While you may not have access to a full gym, a few basic stretchy bands will allow you to do some simple body weight exercises anywhere. This helps you keep strong and injury free for when your usual training and life rhythm, resumes.

Cross training also extends to other activities such as swimming, cycling and walking. So embrace these alternative activities! You get to spend time with your family and friends with everyone being active and healthy.

Keep running by getting enough sleep

When life gets hectic, it can be tempting to stay up late to get things done. However, as with tip #2 too much disruption to your normal routine will only make you feel lethargic and unmotivated.

The odd late night is ok of course! But getting enough sleep is not just about recovering from your run or because you are getting up early to do one. It helps with stress and gives you the energy to manage a busy family life AND train.

Do you know why you are Running?

Relating your behaviour and decisions back to your goal can help you stay on track with your running over busy periods. Event and performance based goals are unfortunately going to mean a stricter adherence to your programme. General fitness goals allow for a little more leeway. Understanding your goals and the importance you place on them will help guide you through busy life periods.

Take a breather!

This last tip is more of a summary. Once you know your goals and how they fit into your life you’ll be able to come up with a plan for running when life gets busy. Knowing that it is ok to take a break and focus on actively resting and relaxing is also an option.

Just keep in mind that you won’t be starting back at the point you left off from before life got hectic. If you’ve taken a step-back with you training then ease back into running on your return for a few weeks. The focus is not that you lost fitness, it is that you gave your body a chance to rest so you can run further, faster and stronger this year!