Jogging and Running in Orlando: A Mom’s Perspective
Hey there, fellow moms! 🏃♀️ As a busy Orlando mom, finding time to stay active can be a challenge, but I’ve discovered that jogging and running are perfect ways to sneak in some exercise while enjoying the beauty of our city. Here’s my take on the best places to run in Orlando and how it has become a cherished part of my routine.
Finding the Right Spots
Orlando has so many beautiful places to jog. One of my absolute favorites is Lake Eola Park. The loop around the lake is about a mile long, making it easy to keep track of my distance. I love how I can watch the swans glide across the water while I run. Just the other day, I took Jimmy with me in his stroller, and he loved pointing at the ducks, giggling as they waddled by. It made my heart happy to share that moment with him.
Another fantastic spot is Bill Frederick Park. It has trails that wind through nature, offering a nice escape from the city. I remember one weekend, I decided to take Lily and Emma along for a family jog. We all wore our matching running shirts, and it turned into a fun adventure. The girls raced ahead while I tried to keep up, and by the end, we were all breathless and laughing.
Early Mornings, Clear Minds
I’ve found that early morning runs are the best. The city is quiet, and there’s something magical about seeing the sunrise over the horizon. One chilly morning, I woke up before everyone else and headed out for a jog. The air was crisp, and as I ran through my neighborhood, I could hear the soft rustling of leaves. It felt like my little escape from the chaos of family life.
After that run, I came home feeling energized and ready to tackle the day. It reminded me of how important it is to take time for myself, even if it’s just for a quick jog around the block.
Joining the Community
One of the best parts of running in Orlando is the sense of community. I joined a local running group that meets every Saturday morning. At first, I was nervous about running with others, but I quickly made friends. Running alongside other moms has been a great way to connect, share stories, and even swap parenting tips!
I still remember my first group run. I felt out of my comfort zone, but everyone was so welcoming. By the end, we were all chatting about our kids and planning future meet-ups. It felt like finding a little tribe in the big city.
Balancing Family Life
Of course, finding time to run with three kids isn’t always easy. Sometimes I have to get creative. If James is home, I’ll take advantage of that time to head out for a quick jog. On days when he’s at work, I often put on a fun family-friendly podcast and go for a run while pushing the stroller.
One day, I decided to challenge myself and signed up for a local 5K. I trained while pushing Jimmy in the stroller, and let me tell you, it was a workout! The day of the race, the whole family came out to cheer me on. Crossing that finish line with my kids waving their homemade signs was one of the proudest moments I’ve ever had.
Jogging and running in Orlando have become more than just a way to stay fit for me; they’re about enjoying the beauty of our city, connecting with other moms, and finding moments of peace in the busy life of motherhood. So lace up those sneakers and hit the trails—who knows what adventures await you!