In this era of COVID -19 and quarantine, being a parent can be extremely challenging. Some kids might be at school while some kids are home. We are constantly monitoring a zoom class. Because our children are isolated from their friends we find our kids needing us more than ever, which leaves little time for us to focus on us. No more is there time going to the gym after drop off, and every time you head out for that run someone seems to need you. Furthermore, we are exhausted and motivation to move is at an all time low. Sitting in front of the tv with a glass of wine sounds so much more appealing. So how can we take care of ourselves, how can we self motivate specifically when it comes to exercise?
As both a personal trainer and a mom of three, I too have trouble fitting in a workout and some days I find and accept that it will not happen but here are some tips to try and incorporate exercise during these crazy times.
- I always tell my kids a more relaxed mom is a better mom, Movement definitely helps me relax. It gives me the space and time to lose all the chatter in my head and focus on myself and my muscles. I know that I come back to my kids with more energy and more patience. With that in mind set boundaries and tell your children, mommy needs her time. When they see you an hour later more engaged, ready to listen they will eventually understand. I personally think its good for our kids to see us investing in something else besides them.
- Once you make them aware that you will be having time separate from them look at your calendar and try to schedule exercise in like you would a meeting or phone call. Having this time in your calendar will hold you more accountable to get it done.
- Pick an exercise you love. This can be a walk, bike ride, yoga. Only do what makes you feel good, what invigorates you and gives you energy. If you dread the exercise or it depletes you, you will not make time for it as a priority.
- If it seems too difficult to have that alone time. Include your kids. All three of my children bike ride and going out for a ride is not only about getting some exercise but also getting bonding time as well. Some of the best conversations happen when kids aren’t looking at you but focused on something else.
- Lose the preconceived notion that you need an hour for a workout to count. You can do an effective workout in just 10-15 minutes, and sometime this is the only time you have. Today many online fitness apps have short workouts which require no equipment to choose from.
- Speaking of short periods of time, sneak exercise into your day. Do some squats while you’re on a call; It all counts!
- Lose the self-blame – don’t beat yourself up if you couldn’t squeeze the workout in; you tried and there is always tomorrow.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
