Hit the ground running Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Immediate Action The phrase implies quick and energetic starting, not gradual preparation. She hit the ground running and finished the task in record time. Pro Tip 2/3Energetic Approach Shows enthusiasm and high energy right from the beginning. Joining the sales team, he hit the ground running with remarkable zest. Pro Tip 3/3Not Literally It's metaphorical for quickly starting, not actually running. As soon as she arrived, she hit the ground running with the new project.