When reciting ultra running tales with others, one common question I get asked is; How do you find time to train for an ultramarathon?

The simple answer, if you want something enough you will make time to fit it into your schedule.

For context, I’m a family man and enjoy spending time at home with my partner and 2 young children. All of whom have busy social and hobby schedules and whilst my partner keeps the household ticking over, I’m the designated driver or dad’s taxi. I also manage and coach an under 13’s football team which requires me to plan for and hold weekly training sessions, organise games, sort out admin and so on. Throw into the mix, I work full time in a senior management role in the Construction industry, meaning a mixed bag of working hours and working location that changes weekly, I’m quite busy and my day-to-day schedule is pretty full already! But I still make time to fit the required training in where I can.

I need to be the best version of me to be at my best for my family and the people who rely on me. And that means being consistently active to be fit and well.

I generally split my training blocks up into 4 week blocks, depending on race calendar, family holidays or recovery post-race. My training time and needs differ greatly depending on what my training is for.

But my base needs or core training which I try to keep consistent all year round, requires me to run 70km per week. This is split across 4 to 5 runs per week. This will generally look like this; 1 x long run / 2-3 x easy zone 2 run / 1 x tempo or speed session. I will also do 2 x strength and core sessions per week which are generally based on full body workouts with varying movements, rep range and load. I stretch daily for around 10 minutes. And use the Ice Bath to aid recovery. If you want to know more about my training plans and how I schedule my sessions, message me through the contact page.

I generally complete my running sessions in the early morning between 4am and 7am, depending on my work schedule. If I am working away and need to stay over away from home, then I take my trainers with me and explore the local area. Running in the morning before everyone wakes works best for me. Followed by an Ice Bath to aid recovery, it sets me up for the day ahead.

My strength sessions are fitted into my schedule when and where I can do them over the week. With at least 1 day’s rest between them. And nothing planned on long run day, or speed day or the day after either of these sessions.

Today’s world is very fast-paced, and I know finding time for running can be a challenge. But with a little planning and creativity, you can seamlessly integrate your training into even the busiest of schedules. Here’s how:

1. Plan Ahead – Your calendar is your best friend. At the start of each week, review your commitments and schedule your runs as non-negotiable appointments. Treating them as such makes it easier to stick to your plan and hold you accountable.

2. Embrace Early Mornings or Late Evenings – If your days are packed, consider running early in the morning or late at night. These quiet times can become cherished moments of solitude and reflection.

3. Make Use of Lunch Breaks – Turn your lunch hour into a power hour. A quick run followed by a healthy meal can recharge your batteries for the rest of the day.

4. Combine Commutes with Runs – If feasible, incorporate running into your commute. Run to or from work, or park further away and run the remaining distance. It’s a great way to make the most of your travel time.

5. Opt for Quality Over Quantity – When time is tight, focus on high-quality workouts. Interval training, hill repeats, and tempo runs are efficient ways to build fitness in less time.

6. Make Running a Family Affair – Involve your family in your running routine. Whether it’s a leisurely jog with your partner, a fun run with the kids or even a jog with the dog rather than a walk, you’ll be spending quality time while staying active.

7. Utilise Treadmills – If the weather or time constraints are an issue, treadmills can be lifesavers. They offer convenience and a controlled environment for your more structured runs.

8. Keep Gear Handy – Always have your running gear with you. Stash a set in your car, at work, or in your gym bag so you’re always ready for a spontaneous run.

9. Be Flexible and Adaptable – Life is unpredictable, and sometimes plans fall through. Be flexible and willing to adjust your schedule. A missed run isn’t the end of the world.

10. Prioritise Rest and Recovery – Don’t sacrifice sleep or recovery time. Rest is crucial for performance and preventing injuries. Balance is key to a sustainable and consistent running routine.

But above all, Make It Enjoyable! Make sure you’re having fun. Choose routes you enjoy, listen to your favourite music or podcasts, and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.

Finding time to run in a busy schedule requires commitment and a bit of creativity. With these tips, hopefully you can maintain a consistent training routine that fits seamlessly into your life. Happy running!