Finding time to run

In our fast-paced world, finding a balance between work and personal life can be a real struggle, especially for moms. With the demands of work, taking care of the household, and ensuring the well-being of their children, it's no wonder that many moms feel overwhelmed and drained. Finding time for yourself to go for a run may seem like the ultimate challenge. But it may surprise you to learn that, when you do find that time, you find yourself with renewed energy, sleeping better and more ready to tackle your daily tasks.

Here are some tips to help you find that elusive balance:

1. Set realistic goals. If you have young kids, or your kids are in several activities, it may be unrealistic to plan five runs a week. Begin with two, and if that's all it ever stays at, good for you. It's far better than giving up. You're more likely to continue, however, if you start small. You may find that as your kids get older and you get into a groove, adding more runs becomes possible.
   

2. When are you most likely have the energy/time? I find getting that run in early in the day, just after the kids are on the school bus, the ideal time. I feel invigorated and ready to take on the day, with that runner's high lasting hours. Other people might have more energy in the evening, or maybe that's just when they can squeeze it in.
   

3. Plan ahead. Look at your calendar and write in your runs. You're more likely to commit to your goals if you write them down. You can also tell your family, "See look, it's on the calendar. You'll have to prep dinner tonight."
   

4. Running during the kids' activities. You might be able to plan a run in during kids' activities. Look at your favourite maps program to find a nearby path or park.
   

5. Join a running club. Most cities have running clubs for those who find it motivating to run and socializing at the same time, two areas you might be finding hard to make time for. Joining a weekly run club can also help create a routine and increase your commitment. Many of these clubs cater to all levels of running, so don't be intimidated. Runners tend to be a pretty encouraging bunch.
   

6. Run home from work. If you ever work outside the home, consider running home once or twice a week if it's a reasonable distance. Or run to the train station instead of taking that dreaded connecting bus that's always late. With some advanced planning, you can make sure to have your running gear with you and find a place where you can stash your work clothes to cart home the following day. With a small backpack or waist pouch you can bring your essentials with you.
   

7. Run with your kids. My older kid runs with me once a week or two. Lucky for him, he has his dad's natural endurance. My younger child will sometimes scooter or bike with us. Kids need exercise, too!
   

8. Invest in a jogging stroller. If your kids are little (not too little, to avoid any possibility of head injury), consider investing in a jogging stroller. Some kids fall asleep almost immediately. Just be prepared to go more slowly at first, as the extra effort pushing the stroller will definitely take some of your energy.
   

9. Weekends are magic. This is where, hopefully, you can demand some me time. Try to get into a routine. Leave out the Cheerios and some fruit, get your shoes on and yell: "It's mom's Saturday morning run time. See you in 45 minutes."

What about you? How do you find time to run? What strategies have worked the best in your busy life?