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.
Table of Contents
1. Wake Up At 5:30 A.M. Before The Baby Wakes Up
Working out before the baby wakes up would be ideal, but I find this strategy can be difficult. However, early mornings are often the best time for exercise, as it can help energize you for the rest of the day. So if you’re looking to make time for exercise in your day, consider getting up 30 minutes earlier and going for a walk or doing a quick workout—you’ll find that making this small change will not only give you more energy but also help you feel less stressed throughout your day.
Doing so can help wake up your muscles, increase circulation, and give you a boost of energy for the day, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. Try some easy yoga poses or simple dynamic stretches, like marching in place or arm and leg swings to help get your heart rate up and get the blood flowing before your workday begins.
2. Find Time To Workout While The 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, and run to the basement to do my workout. 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 am fully into the moment and enjoying (if that’s what you want to call it) my workout. it also helps prime your body for a good night’s sleep.
You don’t need to be at the gym or go for a jog around town – just make sure you move your body and get that blood pumping again!
4. 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. Find Time To Workout During 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.
If you don’t have time to spare for long, leisurely workouts during lunch, then you can always shorten your exercise routine and crank up the intensity. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a great way to get a full-body workout without spending too much time. For HIIT, you can combine strength training and cardio exercises in alternating periods of maximum effort and rest. This type of workout makes efficient use of your time while still providing a great workout.
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!