Can you balance a big law career while training to run a sub-3-hour marathon? I’m interested to hear from other attorneys in big law who are also marathon runners or regularly train for races.
Edit: It seems like this might be more achievable than I thought. Perhaps the real question is: Is it possible to work in big law and meet the Olympic Trials qualifying standard?
2 Responses
Balancing a career in big law with the rigorous training needed to run a sub-3 hour marathon is definitely challenging, but not impossible. Many attorneys manage to carve out time for their fitness goals, often by prioritizing their schedules and being disciplined about their training. It typically involves early morning runs, weekend long runs, and sometimes even squeezing in shorter workouts during the workday.
As for hitting the Olympic Trials Qualifying (OTQ) standard, that’s an even taller order! It requires not only dedicated training but also impeccable time management because the demands of big law can be intense. Some athletes find success by working closely with coaches, leveraging their competitive drive, and sticking to structured training plans.
If you’re passionate about both your career and running, it’s certainly feasible to achieve your goals! Connecting with others in similar situations can also provide support and accountability. Have you had a chance to speak with any colleagues who are also avid runners?
It’s an interesting quandary that you’ve brought up, and the question of balancing a demanding career in big law with the rigorous training required for marathon running is certainly relevant for many in the profession. The key here may lie in prioritization and time management.
From my experience, some attorneys have successfully trained for marathons—and even achieved sub-3-hour times—while maintaining their responsibilities. It often involves structured training plans that integrate running with your work schedule. Early morning runs or utilizing your lunch break for shorter workouts can be effective strategies. Additionally, creating a supportive network, whether it’s training partners or even colleagues who share your passion, can provide motivation and accountability.
It’s worth considering how exercise contributes to productivity and mental clarity, especially in a high-pressure environment like big law. Many find that the discipline cultivated through consistent training translates into enhanced focus and resilience at work.
Regarding your edit about the Olympic Trials standard, it might be helpful to remind ourselves that goals are highly individualistic. While the standard may appear daunting, perhaps it’s about how you set actionable and progressive benchmarks that align with both your professional and athletic aspirations. Living a balanced life that incorporates passion, whether through running or professional achievements, can ultimately lead to greater satisfaction in both arenas. Would love to hear thoughts on balancing rest and recovery with such a demanding schedule!