off and running
Launched or launching vigorously into a course of action.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“We finished the training and are now off and running.”
“Once the team secured the final funding, they were off and running with the new project.”
“With the initial obstacles finally cleared, the startup was off and running, quickly expanding its operations across the entire region.”
The expression arises as an allusion to the commencement of a footrace or horse race. It describes the moment at which the competitors exit the starting blocks or the gate and begin their forward momentum.
- 01
hit the ground running
To begin an activity immediately and with full commitment.
- 02
make the running
To have a leading or influential position in a field or activity; to be more active than others.
- 03
running start
An initial advantage at the beginning of some action or pursuit; a head start.
- 04
take up the running
To proceed at full speed.
- 05
up and running
operational, in operation
Last updated August 10, 2026