Back to School, Back to Running: How to Balance Training and Busy Schedules

Aug 12

The lazy days of summer are coming to an end — and suddenly the calendar’s packed again. Between school drop-offs, work deadlines, after-school activities, and weekend commitments, your running routine can quickly get pushed to the bottom of the list.

But here’s the good news: with a little planning and creativity, you can keep your training on track this fall — and maybe even enjoy it more. At Mount Olive Running Club, we know how hectic life gets this time of year, so we’ve put together some tried-and-true tips to help you find your stride.

1. Plan Your Week in Advance

Instead of trying to squeeze runs into your schedule at the last minute, take a few minutes every Sunday evening to map out your week. Look at your family calendar, work deadlines, and personal commitments, then decide exactly when you’ll run. Treat these times as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Laying your clothes and gear out the night before can also make it much easier to get out the door, even when you’re feeling tired or busy.

2. Run Early in the Morning

Once the day begins, your time gets pulled in a hundred different directions — and that often means your run is the first thing to go. By lacing up before the world wakes up, you start your day with a win. The cooler temperatures make running more comfortable, the quiet streets are peaceful, and the mental clarity you get can set a positive tone for everything else you have to tackle. It may take some time to adjust, but after a few weeks, those early miles might just become your favorite part of the day.

3. Use Shorter, High-Intensity Workouts

When you’re pressed for time, it’s tempting to skip a workout altogether — but you don’t have to. Shorter, high-intensity runs like hill sprints, interval training, or tempo runs can pack a huge punch in just 20–30 minutes. These sessions keep your fitness level high, help you maintain speed, and fit easily into a busy schedule. Even a quick workout on your lunch break or between errands can help you stay consistent and keep moving toward your goals.

4. Make It a Family Affair

One of the best ways to motivate your kids to run is to run with them. Invite them along for a short jog, walk, or bike ride next to you. This turns training into family time, creates shared memories, and shows them that staying active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. At Mount Olive Running Club, we’re deeply engaged in the community and proudly coach the Mount Olive Track & Field and Cross Country teams. We’ve seen firsthand how running can build confidence, resilience, and lifelong healthy habits in young athletes. Learn more about signing up your kids at motrack.org.

5. Lean on Your Running Community

Running with others can make all the difference — especially when life is busy. Our MO Running Club group runs are offered at different times to fit all kinds of schedules, so you can find a run that works for you. Being part of a group not only gives you accountability but also makes training more fun. You’ll have people to cheer you on, celebrate your wins, and help you push through tough days. And let’s be honest — post-run coffee or breakfast tastes better with friends.

Pro tip: Fall races are right around the corner! Wearing your MO Running Club spirit wear at a group run or race is a great way to represent your team and show your pride. If you haven’t checked out our new gear yet, take a peek here.

Running with us is always free — no pressure, just good company and fresh air. Whether you’re a morning runner, a weekend warrior, or someone just getting back into it after summer, we’d love to have you.

See our run schedule and join us this week.

Show Your MO Running Club Pride

Our new spirit wear is here — just in time for fall races, group runs, and weekend coffee meet-ups.

Whether you’re on the course, in the stands, or cheering from the sidelines, MO Running Club gear is a great way to represent our community. Every purchase helps support club activities and programs.

What’s in the collection: