Well I accidentally posted yesterday afternoon (instead of scheduling it to go out today) about how using “I don’t have time to exercise” needs to stop being your excuse. This week I’m going to share some ideas about how to make moving more and getting stronger a part of your everyday life.
I’ll get a little less ‘ranty’ and a bit more helpful as the week goes on. Today, just a quick post with four ideas on how to workout if you have a toddler. Later in the week, I’ll give more general suggestions for those of you who don’t have children, but do have other reasons you’re unable to find time to exercise.
Four Ways to Workout With a Toddler
1. Pop that toddler in a jogging stroller. Bring plenty of snacks…I like to give CJ things that take a bit longer to eat like cut up apples or a trail mix of nuts and raisins. Sometimes once snack time is over, mama’s run or walk must be over. 😉
2. Change your sleep schedule. Sleep is so so so important for fat loss, energy levels and just overall health, but that’s not to say you can’t tweak your sleep schedule a little bit.
Go to bed 30 minutes later to give yourself an extra 30 minutes to squeeze in a quick workout somewhere. Warm up, train hard for 20 minutes and call it a day.
Better yet, wake up earlier. Get that workout in before your toddler is even out of bed. Working out in the morning takes a bit of getting used to, but most people find that once it becomes a habit it’s so much easier than trying to squeeze in a workout later in the day. You can get some basic equipment and workout at home if you have the space or take an early class at a local gym (like our MOVE class at Skill of Strength). If you’re worried about childcare, this type of schedule might be a great option, especially if you have a spouse and you can be back before he/she leaves for work.
3. Multi-task. This one is not ideal, but I certainly do it on occasion. This weekend I was mostly done my workout, but had another few sets of presses, squats and pull-ups left. Strength training with a toddler running around takes a little longer since I usually stop to give kisses, help get a toy out, etc., but it can be done in a pinch.
4. Ask for help. Sit down with your spouse, your parents, your boss or a babysitter. Make a workout schedule and find a time when you have help and can workout consistently. Even if it’s just twice a week and you squeeze in the rest of your workouts using some of the ideas above. Heck, even if it’s once a week, I bet you’ll find you really enjoy that workout time alone.
Never forget that when you take care of yourself, you’ll be much better at taking care of others, like your crazy toddler.
Moms – how do you fit in workouts when you are busy caring for your children?
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