Is 10 Minutes of Running Worth It? Absolutely. Here's Why.

If you’ve ever felt like running for just 10 minutes isn’t "worth it," let me stop you right there. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a working mom of two is that consistency beats intensity every time. Running isn’t about how far or fast you go in a single session—it’s about showing up, again and again.

When I started my running journey, I didn’t have hours to dedicate to training. Between work, parenting, and everything else, my days were packed. If I had waited for the “perfect” window of time to open up, I’d have been lucky to run once every two weeks. Instead, I committed to short runs, often 20–30 minutes, and the impact was life-changing. Even today, training for longer distances, many of my runs are on the shorter side—that’s all I get with my schedule.

Now, as a morning runner, I know that getting out the door before my girls wake up sets the tone for my entire day. Running first thing means I’ve prioritized myself before life gets hectic. After all, once the dishes, homework, and laundry pile up, it’s easy to let your goals slip. But here’s the truth: even a 10-minute run has immense value.

Why Consistency Matters More Than Length

When it comes to running, consistency is your superpower. Forget the idea that long, grueling runs are the only way to see progress. In reality, regular short runs—just a few minutes a few times a week—can do wonders for your physical and mental health.

Build Endurance Over Time:

Every run you complete, no matter how short, lays a foundation for your fitness. Your body adapts gradually to the effort, building endurance and strength brick by brick. Think of it as investing in your future self, one step at a time.

Fit Running Into Your Life:

Let’s be real: as busy moms and professionals, finding an hour for a workout can feel impossible. But a quick 10-minute run? That’s manageable—even on your busiest days. It’s stress-free, fits seamlessly into your schedule, and eliminates excuses.

Stay Injury-Free:

Long, infrequent runs can overwhelm your body and increase your risk of injury. Short, consistent runs, on the other hand, allow your muscles and joints to adapt without overloading them. This steady approach helps you stay strong and pain-free.

How to Start with 10-Minute Runs

Starting small doesn’t mean your progress will be slow. Short, intentional runs are the perfect way to build a sustainable habit that sticks. Here’s how to make the most of those 10 minutes:

1. Schedule Your Runs:

Treat your runs like any other important appointment. Look at your week ahead and block out three 10-minute windows. For me, that means lacing up my shoes before my kids wake up—it’s the only quiet time I get! For you, it might mean squeezing in a quick run during lunch or before dinner. Pick what works best for you and stick to it.

2. Keep It Simple:

No fancy apps or complicated plans needed. Just head out the door, run for 5 minutes in one direction, then turn around and run back. Knowing you only have 10 minutes can make the effort feel doable—and help you avoid overthinking.

3. Celebrate Every Step:

Every run, no matter how short, is a win. Too often, we downplay small efforts, but they add up over time. Take a moment to acknowledge your progress and celebrate showing up for yourself. Whether it’s treating yourself to your favorite coffee or simply enjoying the satisfaction of a job well done, remember that every step counts.

4. Set a Mini-Goal:

Choose a small milestone to aim for during your 10-minute runs. It could be running without stopping, reaching a specific landmark, or hitting a pace that feels good for you. These little wins keep you motivated and give you something to celebrate after each run.

5. Pair It with Something You Love:

Make your 10-minute run even more enjoyable by pairing it with something you love. Listen to a favorite podcast, an audiobook, or an energizing playlist. Turning running into "me time" makes it easier to look forward to and stick with.

6. Use the Power of Visual Reminders:

Keep your running shoes somewhere visible—near the door or your bed—as a gentle nudge to get moving. Seeing them often can act as a reminder of your commitment to yourself, making it easier to take that first step.

Your Running Journey Starts Small

Running isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency, progress, and showing yourself what’s possible. A 10-minute run isn’t “too short”; it’s a powerful step toward building the habit and making running a natural part of your life.

So, the next time you wonder if it’s worth it, remind yourself: every run counts. Whether it’s 10 minutes or 30, what matters most is that you showed up for yourself.

Ready to take the next step in your running journey? Download my free guide, What Every Beginner Runner Needs to Know (But Is Too Afraid to Ask), and get practical tips, tricks, and motivation to help you build a running habit that sticks - even with a busy schedule.