Runners take part in the First Responders Half Marathon along Calgary's Bow River pathway during the fall running season. (Layla Ruggles, CMRU.ca)
University life involves a lot of sitting. There are lectures to attend, assignments to finish, and hours to spend staring at a screen. Between deadlines and exams, it can be easy to put personal goals on hold until the semester slows down. But making time for something outside of school does not have to wait until the final assignment is handed in.
The First Responders Half Marathon on Oct. 18 is one example of working toward a personal goal while balancing academic responsibilities. Training for 21.1 kilometres means finding time to run alongside classes, assignments, and work. It also means having a reason to step away from schoolwork, even when it feels like there is always something to do. Physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood and support better sleep, making it a great break from the demands of student life.
Not everyone needs to run a half-marathon, of course. Personal goals can look different for everyone, whether that means getting stronger at the gym, going for more walks, or finding more time for movement during the week.
Making time for personal goals
A busy school schedule can make it difficult to stay consistent with fitness goals. And when an assignment is due at midnight, a workout can suddenly become easy to put off. A few small changes can make fitting movement into the week more manageable:
- Put it in your calendar — schedule a run, gym session, or walk around your classes and assignments. Treating it like another appointment can help you make time for it.
- Find a workout buddy — working out with others can help you stay accountable while giving you a chance to socialize. It’s a lot easier to show up when someone else is counting on you too.
- Keep it realistic — not every workout needs to be long or intense, and missing a day does not mean a goal has gone off track. Even a short walk between classes counts as a chance to move.
Making the most of MRU recreation
As Calgary heads into winter, trading a warm couch for a run outside can become a little harder.
Luckily, Mount Royal University students have access to recreation facilities and programs on campus, with activities to suit different interests and schedules. Those who prefer the outdoors can also explore nearby paths, like North Glenmore Park.
Making it to the finish line
Three runners celebrate completing the First Responders Half Marathon at the finish line in Calgary’s St. Patrick’s park, proudly showing off their medals after crossing the finish line. (Layla Ruggles, CMRU.ca)
Race day is a chance to celebrate the work that goes into reaching a goal. Fitting half-marathon training around classes, assignments, and work takes planning, but having something to work toward outside school can make busy weeks more rewarding.
Students do not have to run 21.1 kilometres to make time for themselves. From setting a new personal best, or going for a weekly walk with a friend, setting a goal for something beyond school can be worth it. After all, there will always be another assignment. There should be room for something else too.
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