Motherhood and Exercise
June 12, 2015
Finding Time for Fitness with a Little One
My daughter is 18 months now (how in the world did that happen?) therefore I have to come up with exercise routines/schedules that fit my new(ish) role as a Mother. Hitting a gym whenever I feel like it may no longer be an option for me, but I will not use that as an excuse to not get my workouts in. While early morning, evening or nap times are the usual slots to sneak exercise in, I often enjoy including my daughter – kids make good weights!
I have been exercising with Ellie (although she probably thinks it’s a crazy performance) since she was born. As a sleepy newborn, I was able to do my routines with little distraction and by myself. As she got older, she sometimes wanted to be held (especially if she awoke from her nap in the middle of my workout). Instead of throwing the towel in, I strapped her in the baby carrier and continued with my lunges and squats. Now, at 18 months, she “moves” with me. If I am jogging in place, so will she. It’s pretty neat to see her not only learn and understand new things, but I realize I am setting a good example and teaching her that exercise can be fun.
So, what kind of exercises can you do with kids? Lots! Listed is a routine that can be done outside or inside. All you need is a stroller and of course, junior!
Mommy and Me Workout Routine (Perform each move for 1 minute. Rest when you need to. Repeat as many times as you see fit).
- Walking lunges. Push the stroller as you move or hold your kiddo for extra weight.
- Sumo squats with lateral raise (feet further apart than a regular squat and each time your body comes up, lift a leg out to the side). This move can be done while stroller is locked or holding your child.
- Plank/knee tucks. Get into high plank position with toes feet on the bar at the bottom of the stroller. Draw your knees into your chest rolling the stroller towards you. Add a push up to make it more challenging!
- Sit ups. Place your feet under your stroller with knees bent. Playing “peek a boo” or giving your child a “tickle” will help keep them engaged and happy (hopefully!)
- Squat/Shoulder Press. Perform a regular squat. When you push your body up, lift child overhead.
Now, of course all children are different and may not enjoy this. That’s okay. Don’t give up on exercise – even if all you can do is 5 minutes. Keep up the great work, Moms!