A Busy Mom’s Guide to Effective Workouts
Working out as a busy mom
Moms – it can seem impossible to get any time to get a workout in, let alone having it happen consistently. Whether you are a working Mom trying to juggle childcare, a full time job, mom guilt, quality time AND a workout or you stay at home but your littles rule your day, we hear you and see you.
As a Mom to 2 littles myself (1 and 3) I understand the frustration and the feeling of zero alone time. After having my second I quickly realized that alone time was few and far between. I also realized how much daily movement set the tone for my day. It made me a better and more patient Mom. On the days that I skipped it, I felt sluggish, impatient, and frustrated before the day even started. Because of that, I made a promise to myself to move everyday in order to feel my best.
But I also knew that with a husband out the door by 5AM and kids up and at em’ by 6, the dreamy long, solo workouts just weren’t going to be an option. So here’s what I do:
- My workouts are 30-40 minutes max. I work hard and rest less and it’s still a solid workout.
- Move all day. Just because I worked out in the morning doesn’t mean my movement is done for the day. I am out and active with the kids all day. I prioritize walking or running later in the day as “me” time once my husband is home. And if he isn’t home, then a stroller run it is!
- Plan ahead! I write down my workouts for the week, like the whole workout! I know I won’t be in the mood in the mornings to think of exercises so I take that excuse away.
- Lastly, ditch the expectation. Someone will spill their breakfast on the gym floor, there will be tears, sibling fights will happen and children will crawl all over you. I constantly tell myself that I am modeling a healthy lifestyle for my kids which makes it all worth it!
And a bonus – I openly share with my kids that this time is time to make Mommy happy and healthy. I’m not sure that my one year old understands that but my 3 year old sure does! And I love that she is learning that lesson, I hope she carries it with her as she gets older too!
If you are working out with your littles in the mix, know that some days will be more frustrating than others. The beginning of a new routine may be a little tricky for everyone but stick with it! Eventually, they will want to join in with you, they will come to love the routine and cheer you on. That is what I hope for you.
If you find yourself wanting to have a consistent workout routine for yourself but also stuck feeling like it’s impossible, reach out to me! I would love to chat with you and help you! Give my personal Instagram a follow while you are at it! I post at-home workouts that use minimal equipment and can be done in a short amount of time while still being extremely effective!