How to Balance Motherhood with Physical Fitness
Today’s moms have more on their plates than ever. From work outside of the home to keeping track of appointments, taking the children to checkups, keeping track of the budget, running errands, doing maintenance around the house and yard, and trying to find the time to spend with their partners, there isn’t much time left for physical fitness.
Keeping up with workouts not only helps moms stay healthy, but it also sets a great example for the kids. Finding balance between motherhood and physical fitness doesn’t have to be as hard as it seems.
Baby Wearing and Play
Most newborn babies want to be held or carried during their sleeping and waking hours. Moms can use a sling, wrap or another soft carrier to wear the baby. Strap on the baby and do squats, vacuum the floor, do the grocery shopping or head outdoors for a walk. The motion may help lull a fussy baby to sleep. Moms also burn a few more calories and build muscle by carrying the baby.
Make Physical Fitness a Family Endeavor
Physical fitness doesn’t have to mean one-on-one time with a trainer. The whole family can get together and do activities that burn energy while building close relationships. Moms can take the kids outside and play catch, throw a flying disk, show the kids how to shoot hoops, jump rope or roller skate.
Intensify the Exercise
Even moms who only have a few extra minutes in their days can add physical activity. Those ten minutes between turning the water on to boil for spaghetti and when the noodles are ready can be spent doing high intensity interval training. Research has found that short bursts of high intensity exercise may be just as effective as longer but less intense workouts.
Find a Gym with Perks
All moms need a break from the kids even if it’s just for a 30-minute yoga class. Lululemon founder and yogi Chip Wilson makes clothes tailored for the busy mom who doesn’t have time to change between a workout and mommy duty. If you’re constantly on the run, look for a gym that offers free childcare during classes and training sessions. The kids get to play, burn energy, and have fun while you make time for your personal fitness.
Every Step Counts
Running up and down the steps to do laundry, hunting for bargains in the supermarket and chasing toddlers around all count as exercise. Just because there’s no sweat doesn’t mean it’s not adding to fitness. Moms can walk to the bus stop, use a push mower to cut the grass and hit the stairs in lieu of the elevator at work.
Fitness benefits moms emotionally and physically. Any mom can use this time to bond with her kids and show them the benefits of lifelong health.
This has been a guest post.
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