Easy Workouts for Moms on-the-go!
I am not a huge lover of exercise, if I’m being totally honest. Pre-kids, I DID it but mostly because it fit into my routine, I’m big on routines, and I felt great after.
I’ve had gym memberships, Private Pilates lessons (my fav), and the last thing I did BK (before kids) was a 7am barre class 5 days a week.
Fast forward to now and young kids just make my mornings a bit too unpredictable to get a workout in right away. Once they are older, my goal is to get back to a 6am workout. But in the meantime - I try to fit something in, usually later in the day, when typically my energy will start to slump too.
I also have to make a disclaimer that when I’m pregnant - I “work out” just about 1-2x a week and otherwise I shoot for 3x. Nothing crazy!
Let me share what works best for me. And please tell me what you have found to work for your schedule, too!
Keep in mind - this is all about finding about 20 mins, whenever and wherever, to move my body in whatever way you see fit.
WALKING
I like to walk everywhere. Everywhere. This is obviously made easier because I live in the city and like to work and meet in my local coffee shops… but walking is a game changer for me and how I get in most of my activity. Granted, I don’t do this when it’s raining or cold - so this is just for fall, spring and summer. But 30 minute walks into the city center not only help me with activity but also to clear my head from what’s going on that day. Oh, and vitamin D!
AT HOME YOGA
Even if you don’t have a mat, if you have a rug or carpet…. it works. Honestly, sometimes a mat is an barrier for me (“ugh I don’t feel like getting out my mat and changing my clothes...”) - so most of the time I do some stretches and sun salutations IN my pajamas on the carpet of my bedroom before I change my clothes for the day. 20 minutes, max. And if you want something more structured - there are a million youtube “classes” or online classes you can look up for free - or you can pay for a subscription to a streaming service like YogaGlo. After, I will often lay on the floor to a 5 min meditation too.
PELOTON
This at-home spin bike with classes is more pricey up front - but in my experience - WORTH IT. Plus, over time it is actually cheaper than most gym or studio memberships. I have had mine for almost two years and love it, still. I get bored rather quickly but I’m still going strong with my love for this one. Peloton gives you different levels of classes, different times, on demand vs live, and instructors of varying styles to help you find something perfect. I can take a low intensity spin class in my office in my pajamas. I can take a 10 minute hill ride between calls. I can take a 20 minute class with *NSYNC playing after the kids go to bed.
Amazing for me.
I don’t have to *think* with this one because I don’t have any excuses. If I pass by it and I have the time - I do it.
(Ok SOCKS. Only barrier to entry here. I don’t always have socks on.)
If you’ve been thinking about getting one for your home, I highly recommend. Makes working in a quick workout (when you get 30 minutes to yourself) much easier.
So tell me- what are your tips for fitting in movement? Especially with kids?!