Finding time to workout when you are a mom with small children can be difficult. Here are 7 ways to find time to workout that I use or know other moms use in order to manage their family and workout without all the guilt.
1. Wake up at 5:30 a.m. before the baby wakes up
Working out before baby wakes up would be ideal, but I find this strategy difficult. I do wake up very early, but I enjoy this time blogging about working-out rather than doing the real thing.
2. Workout at home while baby naps
This worked well for me when I was at home during my baby’s first year. I would put my baby down for his morning nap, run to the basement to do my work out. On days when I was lucky, he would sleep long enough for me to shower too! I’m a morning person, so I enjoyed working out at this time the best. This is no longer possible now that I’m at work.
3. After the kids are tucked in bed at night
This is what I most often do nowadays, but I usually have less energy to do it at this time of day. I often start my workout with low enthusiasm and go through the motions. Before I know it, I’m am fully into the moment and enjoying (if that’s what you want to call it) my workout.
Click here to find 7 ways to find time to workout Click To Tweet4. Go to a gym that offers childcare
I don’t go to a gym but I know plenty of moms that go to gyms where they offer child care. Sometimes you have to book ahead to ensure that they will have space for your child.
5. Use your lunch hour
If you are a working mom use your lunch hour to work out. Now that I’m working full-time hours, this is my best strategy. Luckily for me, I have access to an outdoor track and a shower in the summer and a close-by gym in the winter.
6. Join a stroller size class or baby/mommy yoga class
I have seen many advertisements for some exercise classes that are baby-friendly and help moms workout with their babies. Running through a local park one Saturday morning this summer, I saw an exercise class being conducted beside a playground. Kids played on the swing sets and slides while their mommies worked out on the grassy field. I thought that was a great idea!
7. Pick a workout you love
Picking an activity you love is important in order too keep motivated and keep doing it. I love running and competing with myself. I try to run faster, or farther every time. Having goals also helps to keep motivated. I also enjoy Yoga. It’s good for those days you when lacking any energy or are stressed out!
If you are looking for free workout resources, my favorite is Nike Training Club.
If you liked this article, you might be interested in more of my healthy lifestyle posts.
Do you have any tips on carving time out of your busy day to workout?
I used to hit the gym 6 days a week for almost 2 hours every time and then little tyke came along and these days the only workout I get is carrying him up and down the stairs. LOL! I wake up 5.45am every Mon – Fri but like you, I prefer to use it for blogging. I do plan to join mummy & baby yoga class soon. It’s also a great way to meet other mothers.
Reflection of Sanity
Yes, you really have to plan to make working out happen. I hope you enjoy your yoga class. I took one while I was pregnant and I really enjoyed it.
I guess I missed this one the first go around. These are great tips, Lucie. I wish we had stroller size classes or baby/mommy yoga classes here. I’m hoping there’ll be more opportunities for things like that where I’m moving to. I’ve read that evening is the best time to work out for optimal physical benefit, but by the time my kids are in bed the only thing I feel like doing is zoning out with Netflix. lol Have a great weekend!