Yesterday Max turned 2 months old and I am back to my normal workout routine. The intensity is not there yet, but the amount of time I spend is what it was before. I often times here these questions and comments:
“How do you have time to go to the gym?”
“My kids don’t let me get a workout in.”
“There is no way I can get a workout in with these kids running around.”
“The only reason you have time to workout is because you don’t work.”
(Let me clear this up. I have worked both part time and full time with a kid and I still make time to workout. I know it is hard and it can be done)
First things first, YOU have to want it. No on else can want it for you: not a trainer, not a coach, not a product. You have to decide for yourself and commit to a healthy fit lifestyle. End of story. Once you are there and are 100% committed to this lifestyle, here are some ways to ensure you get that exercise in even with little ones running around.
How to Workout with Kids
1. Stroller workouts– Unless it is freezing temperatures, raining or snowing, I put my little munchkins in the stroller and head out for a stroller workout. This does not just have to be running: you can do a fast walk, a walk-run combo, walking lunges, stop and do jumping jacks. The options are endless. Your munchkins will actually enjoy it too. We sing songs, talk about what we see, and play the I-Spy game. For example, during the fall we searched for pumpkins and scarecrows during stroller workouts. My 2 year old can also name all the letters in the word “STOP” because of our stroller workouts.
2. Quick, short workouts- Everyone has time for a 20 minutes workout- it is better than nothing at all. Get up 20 minutes earlier and whip out a body weight circuit. I have written many here. These quick, short workouts would also work during nap time, or while your little one is playing nicely. Sometimes I do these at a few different times in the day.
3. Gym with a good childcare– The best kind of workout as when you don’t have to worry about your children. You truly get a moment to yourself. Pay the extra amount and find a gym with good childcare where you feel your munchkins are safe and nurtured. The extra money will pay you back in relief, good health and you’ll be so much happier that you were able to work on your health and fitness while your children were safe and sound. Claire has been going to the gym childcare since she was 8 weeks old and she loves it. It is so fun for her and she gets social interaction! It is really a win-win situation.
I make time for my fitness because it makes me feel better. In order to be the best mom and wife I need this time for me. Make yourself a priority- you are worth it.
Your turn- tell me!
How do you fit in your workouts?
What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to your fitness journey?
I LOVE this post! I love all the myths you dispell about working out with kids. I don’t have kids yet, but I know I will put this as a priority because I want it. People even make this same excuse when they work full time or are busy, etc – not even about kids. There’s always a way!
Thanks Melissa! I had more of a desire and made less excuses once I had my daughter because I wanted to be a good role model for her. Now she walks into the gym and says, “Mommy workout.”