During my NQT year, I was striving to maintain a regular exercise routine for my health and wellbeing. One of my placement schools had a running club, which was helpful. However, there is no denying that fitting in a fitness routine can be challenging for teachers.
I strongly believe, though, that teachers should have the right to commit hours to training, even for something as time-demanding as a marathon, if desired. Unfortunately, the reality is that most of us have minimal free time between holiday periods.
And yet I’ve managed to keep up with my running. Here are my five ways to establish a running regime that works for teachers:
1. School running club
A school running club is a great way to contribute to your school community and find time for your own running. Online resources for “couch to 5K” programmes can help you plan your club activities. You could run in a nearby park, but laps of the playground are just as effective. Getting students to measure the playground with a trundle wheel also provides a meaningful context for a real maths problem to solve.
2. Planning time
My next piece of advice, which might be a bit controversial, is to utilise your planning time. If your school supports you in using your planning time flexibly, I would recommend fitting in a short run before you start your planning. Especially in northern parts of Scotland - where dark nights are a reality for a large chunk of the year - taking advantage of daylight for running and then doing your planning afterwards is a wise choice.
3. Little and often
I would suggest adopting an approach of “little and often”. Setting a goal to run a mile is achievable, especially when you’re buried in report writing, compared with trying to find time for several hours of running. A longer run during the weekend and shorter runs during the week can be easier to fit into your schedule.
4. Be prepared
As teachers, we understand the benefits of being prepared, and this principle applies to running as well. If you’re planning a run right after school, remember to pack your running gear (such as trainers and sports bras). Also, don’t forget to bring a snack, such as a banana or a protein bar. It’s surprising how hunger can discourage you from heading out for a run. An after-school run is also a fantastic way to clear your mind after a busy day.
5. Find organised events
I cannot recommend Parkrun enough. This global running event is simple: a free, timed community 5K event where you can run, jog or walk. Participants can bring their children, dogs and prams (which are common sights). Committing to a weekly 5K on a Saturday morning is manageable for most of us. This regular activity becomes a significant stress-relief tool, not only because of the physical act of running or walking but also owing to the benefits of being outdoors in nature - Parkruns often take place in beautiful parks, woodlands or along seafronts.
As you embark on this new year, why not commit to running - and reap the rewards for both your physical and mental wellbeing?
Gemma Clark is a primary teacher based in Scotland. She tweets @Gemma_clark14
For the latest Scottish education news, analysis and features delivered directly to your inbox, sign up to Tes magazine’s The Week in Scotland newsletter
