Exercise: I understand--there are many days where I am booked solid with so many meetings that I barely have time to use the restroom, let alone go out for a jog or a step class. But by taking the time to schedule exercise into my calendar, I am amazed at how much more I can accomplish in a day. It is true--I swear it.
After exercising, my head is clearer, I am in a better state of mind, and though it is hard to believe, I actually do have more energy. Creating time to work out can be challenging, so here are some ways I've had success making exercise fit into my schedule:
Make exercise a priority: If I told you I'd give you an all-expenses-paid, month-long vacation to the place of your dreams on the condition that you exercised every day before departure, would you do it? Of course you would! You'd make it a priority!
If your schedule is already full, then something else will need to take a back seat. Because in the grand scheme of life, few things are as important as your health.
Consider putting exercise on your calendar, just like any other appointment, and treat it as such. Just as you would not miss a work meeting, don't miss these appointments you made with yourself.
Exercise first thing in the morning: As already stated, I am not a morning person. But if I exercise right after I wake up, I feel more energized and prepared for the day. Additionally, getting exercise out of the way first thing keeps me from getting interrupted by kids, work, and all the rest of life's surprises.
My gym offers early-morning kickboxing classes. At 5:30 a.m. Total honesty: it's really difficult to get up and make these every day. But when I do, I feel energized and proud that I have accomplished something before my kids are even out of bed.
Life and work tend to get in the way as the day progresses, and knowing that I don't need to take additional family time away in the evening makes that early a.m. meeting with myself worth it.
Exercise while watching TV or reading: The average adult spends 16 hours a week watching television. Shocking, but true. Get a good book rack for your stair climber or treadmill and catch up on your guilty pleasures. Just think: yoga positions, leg lifts, walking, and even stretching are all things you can do while reading or watching your favorite show.
Exercise while on the road: Being away from home is not a good reason to skip your workout. In fact, it's the perfect time to get in a jog or a fitness class as the usual mommy and household demands are removed.
Exercising while out of town has another benefit: by making yourself a priority while you're away, you will be able to alleviate your guilt by spending more time with your family when you return. Do your best to avoid the long dinners and cocktails and instead use the time to focus on your health.
Combine playtime with exercise: One of the biggest excuses I hear working moms use is that they can't exercise because they don't have the free time. It's hard to be "selfish" and go to the gym instead of spending time with your kids. Well guess what: you don't have to.
Instead, utilize your time at home and get everyone out for some exercise. I often pack up the kids and the dog and we go for a walk in the neighborhood. Or sometimes a bike ride after dinner. Do they complain when I suggest it? Yes. But once we're outside, I only hear their laughter. There is no TV show anywhere near as memorable as spending time with your family. And with everyone tired after spending time outside, bedtime goes a lot more smoothly.
Samantha Knowles is the author of Working Mom Reviews. To know more about cellulite reducing exercise program check out Cellulite Gone Review Need Know To learn tips that teaches toddlers and small children to read- quickly check out Children Learning Reading Program Review
