Life as a busy mom might make free time, let alone exercise, seem like a fantasy. Get creative and find different ways to incorporate exercise into your routine. In addition to its physical benefits, the Mayo Clinic advocates regular exercise for stress reduction, energy and improved moods---all essential for a busy mom on the go.
Set a Time and Stick To It
Put on paper what you want to achieve through exercise. Rather than guess when and how you want to exercise, stop and write down your goals. Set a time frame for each goal. For example, Sarah is busy mom who wants to run three times a week. Sarah plans her workout sessions each week and schedules them into her planner. Treat each workout like an appointment and value it is as much as you would an appointment with a doctor. Find a time that works best for you. For some, getting up before the rest of the family might be an ideal time to exercise, while others may prefer exercising at the end of the day, after the rest of the family has gone to bed.
Split Exercise Up Throughout The Day
According to United States Department of Agriculture, splitting 30 minutes of daily exercise into segments is just as effective as doing all the exercise at once. Go for a walk during a 10-minute break, do jumping jacks while waiting for dinner to cook or exercise during your child's lessons or practices. Hop on the treadmill for 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes at night if you are short on time, but still want to squeeze in a vigorous workout. All the small contributions to exercise add up and contribute positively to weight management, general health and mood.
Find Support and Exercise Buddies
Offer to care for a neighbor's child while they run errands and ask her to watch your child while you go to the gym or for a run. Join a fitness class that allows children or that offers childcare during a workout. Form a stroller group with other moms and go on long walks with peers and children. Exercise alongside the field with other moms during children's sports practices.
Turn Family Time into Exercise Time
Don't overlook exercising with loved ones; combine quality time with exercise time. Family activities that encourage family exercise include: going for walks after dinner, playing tag outside, going on hikes, running, bike riding, swimming and playing sports, such as basketball and tennis.
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