As a busy parent, it can be very difficult to stick to your workout schedule. There are meals to make, toys to play with, plenty of diapers to change and laundry to do. The list of chores can be endless. You get so caught up in the world of your children that you end up neglecting yourself. Here’s a tip though — parents need exercise too!
You will feel better, you will move better, and you will be healthier for your children. If that isn’t reason enough, I don’t know what else is!
Here are some tips on how to fit exercise in to your busy day.
- Schedule it in. Just like you schedule in a play date or plan for a shower, schedule in some time to exercise. It can be as simple as 10 minutes during your kids’ naps, but the way to stick to it is to have it on your daily schedule. If it’s written down, you are more likely to get it done.
- Be creative! You might not have time to go to an official gym or have an hour for a full-body workout. That is okay, there are plenty of quick and easy ways to fit some exercise in your day. Folding laundry? Do some squats! Going to the mailbox? Do lunges on the way there. Down on the floor picking up toys? Do a quick set of 15 push-ups. How creative can you be?!
- Have your kids join you! Take them on a bike ride, long walk, or even a swim. Get some jump ropes and spend 30 minutes jumping rope with them. Chase them around the backyard or play hopscotch. The key here is to move your body and we all know that kids love to move!
- Make use of down time. While your kids are napping, you can be moving. Again, a jump rope or a flight of stairs can provide you with an easy indoor workout.
- Be flexible. If you planned for a morning workout and it didn’t happen, don’t give up completely. Be creative and fit in some exercise later on in the day.
The reality is that us parents need to take care of ourselves too. If we don’t take the time to exercise and be healthy today, we’re going to have to make time to be sick later.
So get up and start moving — there is no time like the present!
How do you stick to your workout schedule?
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