The most frequent question I am asked as a working Mum is how do I manage to fit my running and training in around my life? It does require being organised! But these are tips that help me to juggle and still get some miles in.
1) Never run hungry - I love running early before the rest of the house are awake, especially in the summer. But especially for women, fasted training isn’t always best and if I don’t eat before I run, I find I lack energy for the rest of the day too. This is where a snack before getting out the door is really helpful. I really like Clif Bloks and a glass of fruit juice, because this won’t make you feel too full but gives you just enough energy to enjoy the run.
2) Plan runs like any other commitment - this is important to me because I don’t think there is anything selfish in scheduling some time in you, so for the rest of the day you can feel stronger and more calm when dealing with life. I also find if I write down my runs in my phone calendar, I am more likely to stick to it as I would any other plans.
3) Workouts don’t need to be crazy! If you only have twenty minutes, it’s better than nothing. Equally, if you don’t have the energy to run, a walk sometimes is just as good. You don’t have to be dripping in sweat to get the benefits of a run either; an easier one can be just as good for building fitness. I find taking the pressure off really helps when life is a bit crazy.
4) Fuel! Protein keeps me fuller for longer so if I can only run later in the evening or straight from work, I have more energy to do it. Obviously real meals are best but I struggle to hit my protein goal without using some protein bars or shakes as well. I quite often have a protein shake when driving home from work so I am not too tired to get my trainers on when I get home. I also love the Fulfill bars, especially the chocolate flavours!
5) Be kind to yourself and don’t compare to others - if all you can manage is a walk with the kids because you can’t get out without them, then it’s still better than nothing and you’re setting a great example to them about being active and getting outside. It can sometimes feel like everyone else is doing more or better than you, but in my experience that’s often not really true and I have raced some of my best races on far from ideal training (and sleep)! Your best looks different everyday, and that’s ok.
