Tips For Runners With A Life Away From The Trails
by Team RunRun coach Laurie Porter
Trail running is a sport that requires dedication, discipline, and a lot of hard work. For those who have a passion for running long distances through rugged terrain, the challenge of balancing your training for trail races with family, work, and life can be quite overwhelming. That said, with proper planning and support, it is possible to find a healthy balance and pursue your trail running goals without neglecting other important priorities. No matter what race you have coming up, balancing your training with life demands can be very challenging to say the least.
Ultimately, there are only 24 hours in a day, which is why it is essential that you maximize the time you have available to prepare for races: these tips will help you do just that. The Beast of Big Creek 14 miler and 5 miler mountain races to the summit of magnificent Mount Ellinor in the Olympic Mountains are set for August 3rd! Will you be ready?
5 tips to help you balance your training with other priorities:
1. Effective time management.
Allocate specific time slots for training and stick to them as much as possible. This may require waking up a bit earlier in the morning, running during lunch breaks, or perhaps after work, but it is essential to make running a priority. By incorporating training into your daily routine, you can ensure that you are consistently making progress towards your running goals.
2. Communication with and support from your loved ones.
Have open and honest conversations with your family about your running goals and the time commitment it requires. Gain their understanding and support by sharing with them why trail running is important to you and how it contributes to your overall well-being. Involving your family in your running journey can create a sense of togetherness: encourage them to join you for short runs or cheer you on at races. Who knows, maybe they will catch the running bug if they haven’t already! Read how running became a family affair for coach Laurie, her husband and children.
3. Find a work-life-training balance that allows you to perform well in both areas.
Consider a conversation with your employer about creating a flexible work schedule or finding ways to incorporate physical activity into your workday. Believe it or not, this isn’t all that idealistic! Many companies recognize and promote the importance of employee health and wellbeing, and may even provide facilities to exercise during breaks. Taking advantage of such opportunities can help you stay active and focused on your training goals while still fulfilling your work responsibilities. That said, this is not an option for all occupations unfortunately.
4. Take care of your overall well-being.
Where possible, ensure you are paying attention to your stress levels, diet quality, hydration, and sleep, as well as making time for family and friends. Adequate sleep and a healthy diet provide you with the energy and strength needed to tackle your training runs while juggling your other responsibilities. Additionally, finding ways to relax and destress, such as practicing prayer, meditation or yoga, can help you maintain a positive mindset and avoid burnout.
5. It’s not about perfection, rather about making smart choices and priorities.
Some days, you may have to adjust your training or skip a run altogether due to unforeseen circumstances. Remember, unexpected things pop up from time to time for everyone, and it is important to be flexible and forgiving with yourself and others during these times. Life is full of ups and downs, and it is okay to prioritize other aspects over trail running. In addition, by maintaining a positive attitude and adapting to the challenges that come your way, you can achieve a healthy balance between family, work, life, and trail running.
TL:DR for balancing your training
Balancing your training for trail races with family, work, and other life demands is undoubtedly a challenge. However, with effective time management, open communication, and a focus on overall well-being, it is possible to pursue your running goals while still fulfilling your other responsibilities. Remember to relax, be flexible, forgiving, and patient with yourself and others as you navigate this juggling act. With determination and perseverance, you can strike the right balance between your love for trail running and your commitment to your family, work, and life.
Laurie Porter is a Portland-based running coach with Team RunRun. She is passionate about helping runners improve their skills, both youth and adults, as she’s well-versed on the track and on the roads, from 800 meters to the ultra marathon.