7 Ways Busy Moms Can Sneak Fitness Goals into Their Day

You probably know that a fitness routine will significantly improve your health. But with all the demands of modern motherhood, it’s not easy for busy moms to find the time to work out. And as challenging as it can be, your fitness goals are within reach. But just like you need to be sneaky about getting the kids to help with chores, you might need to be sneaky about getting fitness into your routine. So first, we’ll look at the benefits of fitness goals for moms. Then, we’ll dive into some ways to make time for yourself.

How Fitness Goals Transform You as a Parent

There’s practically no end to how exercise benefits your mind and body. If you could do just one thing differently to improve your overall health, it would be upping your exercise game. Here are just a few ways that working out benefits your health:

• Endorphins are a natural mood booster. 
• Exercise helps you sleep better. 
• A consistent workout schedule decreases your chances of developing chronic illnesses. 

But when you’re a busy mom, you have more than just your health to worry about. You probably prioritize your role as a mother over your duty to yourself. So let’s look at how exercise can make you a better mother. 

Makes You More Patient

As any mom knows, life with young children can be hectic and unpredictable. From feedings and diaper changes to school drop-offs and extracurriculars, there are always plenty of demands on your time. Amid all this chaos, it can be easy to lose your patience. 

A good sweat may not solve all your problems, but it makes them feel more manageable and boosts your stamina as a mom. Even a few minutes of physical activity can help you positively channel your energy to tackle the day with a clear head.

Sets a Good Example

Kids know when we adopt a “do as I say, not as I do” mentality towards parenting. You know how important it is for your kids to run around and burn off their energy, but if you’re not doing the same, your kids might not be motivated to exercise either. 

So when they see you trying to move your body and prioritize your health, you’re doing way more than just working out: you’re parenting. Just like your children grow to look and sound like you, they grow up to act like you too. So any positive steps you take towards better health will positively impact your children’s future.  

Gives You “Me” Time

One of the biggest challenges of motherhood is finding a balance between your mom duties and your duties to yourself. As difficult as it can be to find the time to address your own wellness, having kids makes it all the more important. 

Exercise is one of the best ways for you to get some much-needed “me” time. It gives you a chance to focus on your own health and wellbeing and provides an opportunity to clear your head and relax.

7 Ways Busy Moms Can Find Time To Exercise

Even if you know exercise is critical to your health, it can feel impossible to find the time throughout the week to get your sweat in when you’re a busy mom. But with some planning and determination, it is possible to incorporate fitness goals into your week. 

Here are a few ways for moms to get some much-needed physical activity into their daily routine:

1. Wake Up Early

Okay, this one is a lot easier said than done. But not only is the morning the best time to work out, but it’s also probably the only time of day when you don’t have other demands on your time. 

While it will be difficult to get used to getting up before your family, you’ll get used to it in no time and start to appreciate those precious moments when your world is quiet. 

1. Schedule Your Workout

When you schedule time in your day to address your fitness goals, you’re more likely to make it happen. Most gyms and studios offer classes before or after school drop-off to help moms like you get their workouts in at the start of each day. 

Also, sticking to a schedule is one of the most effective ways for moms to incorporate a consistent fitness routine. If it’s on the calendar, it’s easier to prioritize. 

1. Squeeze in an At-Home Workout

One good thing that came out of the pandemic was that the number and variety of at-home workouts reached new heights. There are many fun, quick, and free workout videos that you can do in front of the TV or in your backyard. Many don’t require any equipment. 

Or, you can subscribe to a subscription-based workout program such as Apple Fitness+ or Peloton. These often require equipment, but if you have the space in your home, a little fitness setup could be an excellent option to help you squeeze a workout into your day.

1. Take the Kids to the Park

If it’s a nice day, go for a nice walk around your local park with your kids. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise while spending time with your little ones. You could even do a few push-ups while they’re sweating it out on the playground.

1. Go on a Family Bike Ride

A family bike ride is another fun way to exercise with the family. Find a local park or a neighborhood with bike lanes and take the kids out with you for a little cycling fun. 

1. Use Your Lunch Break to Work Out

Fitness can be a super difficult goal for working moms. So your lunch break might be the best way to sneak fitness goals into your day. Whether it’s a jog through the parking deck or a quick run to the gym, getting a sweat in at midday will give you the burst of energy you need to avoid that post-lunch slump.

1. Look for a Gym with a Daycare Service

Many gyms offer a supervised play area for children. That way, you can take your kids to the gym with you and take as much time as you need to work out. Often, these daycare facilities will organize fun activities for the kids to get some exercise too!

Final Thoughts

It can be challenging for busy moms to incorporate fitness goals into their routines. But where there’s a will, there’s a way. And ultimately, regular exercise will make you a better mom and a healthier and happier person. 

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