Dear Moms,
The days go by fast, our kids grow up even faster and before we know it... weeks, months, and years have gone by since we last took time to exercise regularly. Over the years we develop a mindset that, "We just don't have the time to get to the gym," and that is okay, but I am here to tell you that we DO have the time to move our bodies. Even when we bring our kids to soccer practice, piano lessons, play dates and even when we are making dinner there is time for you. We are always on the go and so should our workouts. This is why we don't have to go to the gym for a good sweat. All too often we associate our ability to workout with the idea that we must do it at the gym. We must stop this! Add movement into what you are already doing.
If you are at your child’s practice, instead of sitting in the stands I encourage you to take a walk. Do some squats, push-ups or step-ups on the bleachers. Yes, move your body while your kid is moving their body. The best way to do this is to ask some other moms to join you. I have never met a mom that didn't want to be in better shape. Moms WILL join you.
If your kid is at piano lessons or at some session that is a more quiet environment, step outside and go for a walk. If your kid is at the dentist… Don't just sit in the waiting room and play on your phone, turn up your Pandora, go outside and see where your feet take you. You can do lunges in the parking lot. You can do step-ups on a curb or even do a walk-jog around the building, just move!
If you have a play-date this is the best time to workout with the other moms. Get your kids involved. Turn up Kids Bop and dance with your kids. Guess what? Dancing is cardio. You can take 10 minutes at a play-date and do some push-ups, squats, lunges, sit-ups… you get the point.
Even when you are making dinner you can add movement while cooking. While you are waiting for the timer to go off add some squats, add a 20 second plank hold or just turn up some good music and dance while you are cooking. I love to incorporate music into my day, it adds a little pep-in-my-step.
There is time ladies. We just need to be creative. Please send me some ways you add movement to your mom-life. -Anna