Balancing time, energy, and emotional resilience as a new parent feels impossible, let alone maintaining a full training schedule. But with patience (for yourself and your little one) and support from others, it can be done.
A BMC Public Health study found a clear link between new parenthood and reduced physical activity. With schedules turned upside down, limited time, and the challenge of organising childcare, it’s no surprise that activities like running often take a backseat. The guilt of prioritising “me time” only adds to the struggle.
To help, we've partnered with Tashi Skervin-Clarke, a dedicated runner and full-time mum, to share her best tips for fitting training into a busy parenting schedule. Read on for practical, realistic advice on how to fit working out in a busy schedule.
Why Is It So Hard to Find Time for Running as a Parent?
Aside from the obvious factors like lack of time and support, there are a number of reasons why parents struggle to find time for consistent training. We’re here to reassure you that all of these reasons are okay and that there is a way to start building your fitness back up again.
Many parents experience some, if not all, of these challenges:
- Lack of time
- Limited support
- Fatigue and sleep deprivation
- Physical recovery (especially for mums)
- Loss of motivation or confidence
- A shift in priorities
- Guilt
For personal trainer and experienced runner Tashi Skervin-Clarke, the early days of parenthood made running feel almost impossible. “I wasn’t one of those parents who magically ‘bounced back’ into fitness. For the first year, just getting through the day on broken sleep felt like a marathon in itself,” she shares. It wasn’t until her daughter started sleeping through the night that she could commit to running again, something that soon became her lifeline. “Once I did, it became my ‘me time’ to clear my head, blast a good playlist, and feel like me again.”
Her experience is one many parents can relate to. Running isn’t just about fitness, but also about reclaiming a sense of self amidst the chaos of parenting.
Not Sure Where to Start? Here Are 5 Game-Changing Running Tips For Parents…
Now that we’ve identified the biggest hurdles, let's talk solutions. Here are five practical steps to help you balance training with family life:
1. Plan Your Runs Like Appointments:
Scheduling your runs as if they were a meeting or appointment is a great hack to ensure they happen. As Tashi puts it, “I schedule my runs at the start of the week like I would a meeting. If it’s in the calendar, it’s happening.” Having an “appointment” set in stone removes the stress of figuring out when to fit it around your busy life, making it a non-negotiable part of your routine, just like a doctor’s visit or a trip to the dentist.
For many parents, getting a run done early in the day helps avoid distractions. “Getting it done early works best for me—no excuses, no distractions, just me and a wicked playlist,” says Tashi.
2. Early Mornings Are Your Best Friend:
As much as we all hate to hear it, the early bird really does catch the worm. Running first thing in the morning frees up the rest of the day, and has been shown to improve sleep quality, according to a PubMed study. While running at the crack of dawn isn’t necessary, the “early to bed, early to rise” approach has its benefits. Tashi has found this firsthand: “The other day I was in bed by 9 PM, up at 5:45 AM, and ran my fastest 5K in years!” There may be something to this method after all.
3. Be Flexible, Not Perfect:
Some days go to plan, others don’t. And that’s okay. As Tashi Skervin-Clarke says, “I’ve learned to swap runs, shorten workouts, or throw in a quick home session when life gets chaotic.” When nothing goes as planned, flexibility matters more than perfection. “Consistency beats perfection every time,” she adds. Showing up, in any form, is what truly counts.
4. Lean on Your Support Squad:
Support from a partner, family members, or friends is essential for making time to train. Tashi admits, “I used to think I had to be ‘doing something important’ to justify asking for help. But a two-hour long run? That is doing something. A 20-minute jog followed by a solo coffee shop moment? Also doing something.” Taking time for yourself, even for a short run, isn’t selfish, it’s a game-changer.
5. Be Realistic:
Starting with small, realistic goals allows training to be rebuilt gradually. As Tashi explains, “Ambitious goals are great, but if you don’t have the capacity, time, or energy to achieve them, you’re setting yourself up for frustration.” Progress should be taken step by step, with larger milestones introduced when ready. “There’s no rush. It’s your race—run it at your own pace,” she adds.
Take The Lead From Tashi
Tashi is currently taking on the SuperHalfs Series as part of our 2025/2026 6IN1 running team, raising funds for Make-A-Wish UK, an incredible charity that brings life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses. Inspired to get involved or curious about the SuperHalfs challenge? View our SuperHalfs Charity Series Entry to learn more and take your first step.
Make Your Miles Mean More With realbuzz
With these invaluable tips under your belt, you’ll be back on track to those bigger running goals, such as a 10K race, half marathon, or even a full marathon. When you’re ready to start hitting these goals, why not make your miles mean more by racing for causes and charities close to your heart, supporting other parents and children going through difficult times?
When you choose to run with realbuzz by your side, you can trust that you have a fundraising partner that will support you every step of your journey. If you’re ready to make every mile count, get in touch with our friendly team today to start your fundraising journey.
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