Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
As soon as you have kids, you’ll quickly find everyday activities like exercise become luxuries. Priorities change to accommodate new responsibilities. However, it’s important to find time for self-care, so you can continue to be healthy and care for your babes. Most doctors recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week for everyone. Of course, this can be modified to fit your lifestyle, fitness level, and time.
So, as a mom, how do you find time to exercise regularly?
Have the Right Equipment/Gear
Parents tend to be frugal when it comes to spending money on themselves. Many of us believe that the money we spend on ourselves could have been better spent on the children. But if you’re going to exercise, you may as well do it right with the correct equipment. Consider it an investment in your health.
Some basics to consider include a good pair of running or cross-training shoes, workout pants or shorts, a top, and a sports bra. You’ll want to have more than one so you don’t have to wash them every day. If you’re going to be exercising outdoors, consider a waterproof jacket.
As far as gear goes, I recommend deciding what type of exercise you want to do first. You may want to look at some workout videos to see what type of weights, ropes, mats, kettlebells, and other equipment are recommended. More info on the different types of exercise gear can be found online or ask at your local sporting goods store.
Have a Workout Buddy
One way to help keep you committed to regular exercise is to work out with a partner or buddy. Find someone who has similar goals to yours so it makes sense for you both. Additionally, try to take your workouts to different places like the park, classes, the gym, or a fun day of hiking or rowing. Keep each other motivated and accountable by keeping in touch between workouts. And, don’t forget to celebrate together when you reach your goals!
Work Out with the Kids
This one is perfect for women who simply can’t find the time to get away from the crew. You can take the kids to the park for a hike or pool for swimming. After all, you don’t have to do some organized form of exercise to count as movement. I used to do my workouts with my babies…literally. I would lift them over my head as though they were weights! They loved it! You can also ask your older children what they would like to do that’s active and do it!
Hire a Personal Trainer
One thing that will keep you on track is knowing you have paid for a personal training session. Putting money into something always solidifies our commitment level. If you hire a personal trainer, you’re also going to have someone to be accountable to. Plus, they’ll come up with a routine and workout plan that will fit your fitness level, goals, and time schedule.
Sure, these are just a couple of things you need to do in the lead up to starting working out and incorporating exercise into your day to day routine. Sure, you may not automatically want to hit the gym or head to a sports training session after a long day running around after the kids. But these changes will make all the difference to your overall health and wellbeing. So, incorporate them into your routine and start reaping the benefits sooner rather than later!
