Story By Athlete - Neva Jansen
In my previous article on deciding to focus on one sport, I mentioned that success in athletics is often determined by the amount of time and effort you put into it and by doing the right things at the right time. Yet for young athletes, training is only one part of life. Balancing sport with school and a social life can be just as important for long-term success.
Balancing School Life and Sport
School plays a vital role in shaping your future during your teenage years. Even if you dream of becoming a professional athlete, only a small percentage of people make it to the elite level. According to recent statistics, there are around 10,000 professional athletes in the UK, which may sound like a lot. Still, it is a tiny number compared to the millions participating in sports nationwide.
Balancing school life alongside sport is so important. Strong grades give you something to fall back on if your dream career in athletics does not materialise. Achieving those grades takes time, energy, and discipline; qualities that sport also demands. For athletes in Year 11 or Year 13, exam years often require sacrifices in training or competition schedules. And that is perfectly acceptable.
A great example is Laura Muir, one of Britain’s most successful middle-distance runners. Alongside her athletics career, she trained to become a qualified vet, something that demanded she balance study with training. Despite the sacrifices, she still reached a world-class level. Her story shows that balancing school and sport is possible and can also shape you into a more resilient athlete.
Ultimately, everyone must find their balance between school and sport. Some thrive under strict routines, while others need more flexibility. The key is learning how to adjust when the pressure of exams and deadlines meets the training demands.
Balancing Social Life and Sport
Participating in sport brings countless benefits: improved fitness, discipline, and a strong mindset. It also supports mental well-being. Exercise releases endorphins and serotonin, the so-called “feel-good hormones” that lift mood and help manage stress. However, sport can also be mentally demanding, especially when dealing with injury or frustration over performances.
Balancing sport with a social life becomes crucial, and spending time with friends or family can provide the mental reset you need. While serious athletes cannot attend every party, film night, or outing, that does not mean fun should be abandoned altogether. Making time for friendships can improve sporting performance by reducing stress and offering perspective.
The real challenge is learning when to say “no” and when to say “yes”. Saying no allows you to stick to your training and recovery routine. Saying yes will enable you to enjoy a break, reconnect with friends, and return to training refreshed. Every athlete must discover their balance here, finding a rhythm that protects performance and happiness.
Balancing All Three at Once
The most challenging part is balancing school, social life, and sport all at the same time. It is tempting to prioritise one over the others, but long-term progress often depends on managing all three together.
One practical approach is planning. Look ahead at your training schedule, school deadlines, and monthly social commitments. Identify which competitions and sessions are essential and where schoolwork must come first. In the remaining free time, create opportunities to see friends and enjoy a social life.
Balancing these three elements will always involve sacrifice, but it does not mean neglect. Sometimes you will miss a training session for a school exam. You will also turn down a social event to prepare for a competition. Accepting these trade-offs as part of being a committed athlete is key.
Finding Your Balance
Every athlete’s journey looks different. Some excel with strict discipline, others need flexibility. What unites them is the challenge of balancing school, social life, and sport. Achieving that balance supports athletic performance and ensures you grow as a person with options beyond athletics.
Success in athletics requires commitment, but commitment alone is not enough. Balancing all areas of life creates the foundation for sporting success, long-term happiness, and resilience.
