You desperately need to escape for a few kilometres. Here’s how.
1. The Early Wakeup
Set your alarm for the crack of dawn and get your run done first thing.
Pros: Start the day off on the right foot. One shower a day.
Cons: Your bed doesn’t let you out so easily. And it’s still dark.
2. The Late Night
Head out after your kids have gone to sleep.
Pros: The last thing you do each day is an investment in yourself.
Cons: Your couch doesn’t let you go so easily. And it’s dark already.
3. The Running Pram
Fresh air for everyone, with the help of three wheels.
Pros: “Daddy, look at the squirrel!”
Cons: “I want to get OUUTTTT!”
4. The One-Hour Kid Swap
You get 30 minutes to run, your friend watches the kids. She gets 30 minutes to run, you watch the kids.
Pros: Everyone gets a short workout.
Cons: The real workout is keeping an eye on your friend’s little ‘angel’.
5. The Treadmill
Plop your kid in a safe area, put on some cartoons, and jump on the treadmill in the garage.
Pros: Easy access for anyone who needs you.
Cons: Easy access for anyone who needs you.
6. The Run Commute
Throw your work clothes into a backpack and run to work.
Pros: The ultimate in multitasking. And you burn kilojoules instead of gas.
Cons: You forgot clean underwear.
7. The Lunchtime Run
When all your coworkers head off for fast food, you hit the roads around the office.
Pros: You’ll come back to your desk feeling recharged and ready to tackle the afternoon.
Cons: Sweating. Still sweating. And, yep, still sweating.
8. The Babysitter
Hire a third party to watch the kids while you go for a run.
Pros: The kids are having as much fun as you are.
Cons: That hourly rate adds up in a hurry.
9. The Sandpit at the Track
Put your kids in the long jump pit while you run laps.
Pros: Built-in entertainment.
Cons: Third-lap soundtrack: “Mummy, sand taste yuck!”
10. The Childcare at the Gym
You can still get your treadmill time in by joining a gym that offers on-site babysitting.
Pros: Kids get to play with different toys while you’re racking up the kilometres.
Cons: Who knows where those communal toys have been?
11. The Potluck
Everyone brings a child, one unlucky parent watches them all.
Pros: Great plan as long as you’re not the one who drew the short straw.
Cons: You will, at some point, draw the short straw.
12. The Graduation
Your kids are old enough to stay home alone. What could possibly go wrong?
Pros: It’s just like going for a run before you had kids. So easy.
Cons: Your inner dialogue: “Is that siren I hear headed to my house?”