How Parents Can Get Back into Running
Did your kids run off with the time you used to spend exercising? Has the whirlwind of becoming a parent made your trainers collect dust? You're not alone... but we’ve got good news: your running comeback is just around the corner — and your kids will thank you for it.
You’re a parent, yes — but you're also you.
You deserve guilt-free time to feel strong, energised and alive. Running isn’t selfish — it’s self-care. It’s your sanity saver, your me-time, your shot of natural energy.
Whether you're navigating nappies or the school run, here’s how to carve out time to run without sacrificing your family. (and guess what: you’ll probably be a better parent because of it.)
Time-Saving Tips for Running Around a Busy Schedule
Morning Miles: Set your alarm just 30–60 minutes earlier. It might feel brutal at first, but the post-run energy boost will have you parenting like a champ by breakfast.
Invest in Equiptment: Get a Treadmill for Nap-Time Dashes, or a Running Buggy to take them with you! It's money very well spent.
Not within your budget? There are an abundance of YouTube workouts you can do from home, for free!
Errand-to-Run Combos: Need milk? Run to the shop. Got to post a letter? Make it part of your warm-up. Stack your tasks and make it fun.
Activity Piggybacking: While your kids are at nursery or swimming lessons, don’t scroll... sprint! Those 30 minutes can be a lifeline.
Evening Wind-Downs: When the kids are tucked in and silence finally descends, get those trainers on. Running off the day is better than a glass of wine (well... you can have that too as a post-run trest 😉).
Running with Kids in Tow
Running Buggies: If your little one is still buggy-bound, invest in a proper running buggy. It’s a win-win — they get fresh air and motion, you get a workout and endorphins. Plus, you’ll be modelling healthy habits from the start.
Scooter & Stride: Got older kids? Let them ride or scoot alongside you in the park while you run loops. It becomes family time with fitness built in.
Single Parent? You’re a Superhero, and You Deserve Time for You
We know your plate is beyond full. But even a 10-minute run can help with mental clarity, stress, and your ability to juggle it all. Here are some ways to fit it in:
Ask for Help: Whether it’s a friend, neighbour, or grandparent, take them up on the offer to watch the kids — even if it’s just once a week.
Use Tech Wisely: If your child is old enough to stay home safely for 20 minutes, pop on a film and take a quick loop nearby with your phone in hand.
Join a Local Program (Like Ours!): You’ll get community support, structured motivation, and a reason to show up. No one understands busy schedules better than other parents!
Why Running Makes You a Better Parent
Energy In, Not Out: Even when you're tired, running gives you energy. You’ll feel sharper, more present, and less frazzled.
You-Time Is Powerful: It’s not just about cardio — it’s about reclaiming a piece of yourself. You don’t lose your identity when you become a parent... you just need to run back to it sometimes.
Setting the Example: Your kids are watching. When they see you prioritise your health, they learn to value their own.
READY TO GET SET?
If you're thinking "I want to, but I don’t know where to start" — that’s exactly what our Get Set running programme is for.
It’s designed for beginners, restarters, and busy people (hello, parents!). You’ll be guided week by week, supported by a community, and encouraged in the most positive way. No judgement. Just joy.
👉 Join our Get Set running programme today.
Because the best thing you can give your kids... is a happy, healthy you.
We can’t wait to run with you x