In this week's episode, we asked some of our most inspiring community members to tell us how they make training work alongside busy family and professional lives. We were blown away by the rich insights that came back, including tips on early morning workouts, run commutes, calendar blocks, stroller jogs, home gym setups, and how to effectively tag-team with your partner when both of you want to get some movement in. Our parent-athletes also opened up about how their mindsets have evolved since becoming parents—reframing training as self-care, identity, and connection—and how that shift helps them show up more fully for the people they love, without letting go of big athletic goals. Whether you're a parent-athlete yourself, thinking about starting a family, or just looking for better balance in a busy life, this episode is for you. Check it out!
Favorite gear/resources/etc. for parent-athletes
“A great babysitter!”
Home gym setups:
“2) Home training set-up that you actually enjoy. This both cuts out any travel time to gym, and also lets you workout while kids are napping.”
“For me, the best ‘gear’ is anything that helps save time or make training fit more smoothly around family life. My indoor trainer is probably the most valuable tool I have. It lets me get quality bike sessions done early in the morning without leaving the house.”
“I also rely heavily on my watch and TrainingPeaks to plan efficiently, so I can make quick adjustments when family or work schedules change.”
“Beyond that, I’d say my real ‘resource’ is routine and mindset. Having a clear plan and realistic expectations keeps things sustainable. It’s not about having the perfect setup, it’s about having the right tools to make the most of the time you do have.”
“Treadmill so you can still train while they are sleeping.”
“An eye mask and red lights - one of you will be up during the nights for a while. Using red light really helps me not fully wake up while changing diapers so that I get back to sleep faster. And an eye mask really helps me to stay asleep when my wife is tending to the baby.”
Baby bjorn: “And don't knock the classic Baby Bjorn! I did everything from mow the lawn to vacuum the house to go walking with friends to out for cocktails with baby onboard! (no judgment - both of my children avoided catastrophe in all those scenarios). Babies are mobile - take advantage of that as much as possible! They won't break. ;)”
Our gear picks of the week:
Katie: KT tape for pregnant belly!
Elena:
Notes app– but curious to learn others’ task and planning management systems!