How to organize a simple workout routine for yourself if you are a stay-at-home mom?
Although being a mom is a unique and life-changing experience, it usually leaves us exhausted and without any free time for ourselves. Once the kids are around, everything we do has one simple goal: to make them feel safe, healthy, and happy. Many stay-at-home moms tend to neglect themselves, and while it’s understandable that sometimes all of us feel tired and drained, especially after a whole day of running around and chasing the kids, it’s important to realize that exercise can give you a big energy boost. A simple workout routine can help you stay fit, both physically and emotionally.
The early bird
Kids can be a handful, and it’s hard to do your squats or a plank between changing diapers, helping with the homework, or making breakfast. All this can be avoided if you wake up earlier and do your workout while your kids are still sleeping. It’s a time when everything is quiet and you can concentrate on your exercise without being interrupted. Even a quick, 10-minute workout routine can be effective. Yes, it sounds unbelievable that only a few minutes of physical activity a day can make a big difference, but, everything is better than not working out at all, right? It’s also important to start a new day by doing something that you find relaxing in order to prepare for all your chores and tasks.
Include your children
If your children are around during your workout session, it would be a great idea to include them. You know how kids like to be part of everything you do, so explain that exercise is something that will help you be much more patient and fun during the day. It’s true that watching somebody exercise isn’t the most interesting thing for a child, but if you ask them to help you count your reps and appoint them as your little personal trainers who can bring you a towel or some water, they’ll feel important and ready to cooperate. This has another great advantage, as you’re giving your kids a great example and showing them that no matter how busy you are, you can always find time to work out. According to a recent study, children whose parents exercise are more likely to develop similar workout habits. This means that by training in front of your kids, you’re actually role-modeling a positive attitude to physical activity and teaching them to love exercise.
Make your workout routine stick
It’s interesting how people have a misconception that all moms should be fit and have toned bodies, simply because they have to chase their kids all day long. Even if you feel like you’ve just run a marathon at the end of the day, it doesn’t count. Only an actual workout is something that can help you shed a few pounds and energize you. The fitness plan you choose doesn’t have to be fancy or complex, and what’s even more important is that you don’t need any special equipment. If you aren’t sure where to start from and what the best option is for a busy mom, a complete workout routine that you can do at home and adjust to fit your needs and abilities is always a good idea. Grab a pair of dumbbells and you’re good to go. But, what if you miss a day, two, or even three in a row? Don’t worry, just carry on. These things happen, especially if you’re a busy mom and you’ve got nobody to help you. Don’t let that discourage you or lead you into habits of overeating or undereating, as even if you occasionally skip your workout, it’s not the end of the world. Instead of being too harsh on yourself, change your point of view and be proud of yourself on the days you stick to your routine.
Kids shouldn’t be your excuse for avoiding exercise. It’s not good for you and it’s not good for them. By taking care of yourself and your body, you’ll be more balanced, patient, and you’ll have more energy to deal with everything that comes your way during the day.
Author BIO
Samantha has a B.Sc. in nutrition, and has spent two years working as a personal trainer. Since then, she has embarked on a mission to conquer the blogsphere. When not in the gym or on the track, you can find her at Ripped.me, or in a tea shop.