Working Out with Kids
Working out with children in the house is a challenge. From finding the time to workout to keeping them focussed on an activity for 15 mins - working out can seem basically impossible at a mom.
I was with you (and still am some days), if you feel this way. At the beginning of my journey into motherhood, I was at a complete loss as to how to squeeze in exercise with my new little addition. I loved being able to stay at home with my little girl, but trying to find time for me when all she wanted to do was be held and then get into everything meant I was always focussing on her - and I just wanted a little bit of myself back.
So after lots of trial and error, I have found some great ideas on how to fit in exercise when you have littles running around your feet. Because I promise you - taking care of yourself and making yourself healthy will help you be a better mom.
So here’s some ideas, let me know which one worked the best for you!
Work out before the kiddos get up
This is the one I saw everywhere when I first became a mom, and in all honesty it didn’t workout at all. My girl did not sleep very well at all and to be honest I could not give up my extra 30 mins of sleep. And then we moved to an apartment and there was no where to workout without waking her up. So I mention this one because it works so well for so many moms, so it is totally worth a try, but don’t feel bad if this one isn’t for you. There are so benefits to trying this though if you have the option to do this. First, if you get your workout done first thing you don’t have to think about it again and you already feel accomplished for the day. There are also some great benefits to working out fasting which include burning slightly more fat and also increasing your calorie burn through the day. So if you can try it out. (plus you wake up way faster if you start your day working out vs drinking coffee)
Set up a play area right near your workout area and set a timer
This is what I usually end up doing nowadays. My little ones love to be near me all the time and that includes when I am working out. So I usually try to set up a little play area with either playdough, dolls, blocks, or coloring. They can watch me and also stay entertained. This is great because you are getting some time to stay healthy, they are seeing you taking care of yourself and they are also doing some great free play which really increases their independence and creativity.
Go for a run and do a stroller workout
I love doing stroller workouts with my little boy. He is currently 7 months old which is the perfect age to be in a jogging stroller. There are a ton of different stroller workouts you can find online and I also have some on my Instagram if you are looking for inspiration. Stroller workouts help get you and your kids outside and also let them explore nature while you get in some fitness.
Do a dance party (with workout moves)
Who doesn’t love a good dance party… basically no one. Dance parties are a staple in our house and who says that you can’t add in some jumping lunges and high knees into a dance routine. Dancing in itself is great cardio and then adding in some toning moves will give you a complete workout all while having a great time and making memories with your kids.
Do a game of chase with your older kids and incorporate workout moves if they catch you
This one is so much fun. In all honesty, we don’t do this a lot but I can tell you that I am totally worn out after playing a game like this. Basically, it is a game of the kids chase you and then you run away and if they tag you you have to do some sort of workout move (you choose or they can). We end up laughing the whole time and everyone gets active.
Let the kiddos workout with you
Another great option is to let your children work out while you work out. This helps you get their energy outand lets them feel grown-up. My little girl loves to create new workout moves and tells me exactly what muscle groups she is working out - It is such a special time that I know I will miss when she gets older. (And just a side note- I really encourage and remind her that we work out to be strong and healthy. Try not to put any emphasis on weight loss or body image)
Naptime anyone?
This one is so great if you have a great napper. Naptimes can be a great way to break up the day and also get some much-needed you time. It can be so tempting to just relax or do housework, but I really encourage you to take so of that time to work on yourself.
Join a gym with childcare
I ended up doing this with my daughter when she was little and it was so great. It did take some time for her to get acclimated but then it was such a great thing. I felt great about working out because I knew that while I was working out she was getting to play with her friends and learning social skills. And bonus - I started to shower there too so I didn’t have to figure out trying to get fresh and clean while entertaining her too.
Stroller Strides/ SLAM or a mommy workout group
I haven’t been apart of too many of these groups but I really love the idea of them and have only heard wonderful things about all the different groups. It is a great way to make mommy friends and get in a great workout.
Playground or outside workout
This is really great when the weather is nice and a bonus if you can also do a workout and a playdate at a park.
I sure do hope that this list helps a little bit in your motherhood journey. I know finding time and energy to work out can be a lot when you are a mom, but I also know how rewarding it can be. Please let me know if I can help in any way! I love hearing from you and also know that any attempt at a workout (even if it doesn’t go too well is a total mom win). Keep it up!
