Balancing act: finding time for fitness in a hectic world.

No matter what stage of life you are in, finding time for physical activity can be difficult. Speaking from experience, during the years of having littles, it can feel impossible.

Here are a few key concepts I’ve learned along the way.

All or nothing. Let go of the all or none mentality. I used to think if I couldn’t get a solid 45-60 minutes of intense exercise (maximum heart rate, dripping in sweat) then what was the point of doing it at all? If I got interrupted, I’d get frustrated & quit. If I missed a day or two, I’d throw in the towel. This also has a second meaning; not every workout has to be at 110% effort, the heaviest you’ve ever lifted, the fastest mile, etc. Anything is better than nothing.

Start. In the words of Nike, “Just do it”. We often spend too much trying to figure out what is the best exercise, best routine, the best gym, best group class etc. Then social media tells us “do this”, “don’t do this”, “do it this way, not that way”. Don’t get caught up in the details. Just start. Build a foundation. Consistency is more important than perfection.

Consistency. There are certainly days I simply don’t want to workout at all, but I know I will feel so much better both physically and mentally after I am done. Maybe I choose lighter weights that day, or do an easier bike ride, but after I’ve started and certainly once I finish, it was worth it.

Guilt. Don’t feel guilty. Taking time for yourself can create parent guilt, but it is good to teach your kids 1.) mom & dad can take time for themselves 2.) you are teaching them healthy habits and that making time for activity is important 3.) showing them that girls/moms can be strong and lift heavy weights too. Use the opportunity to teach kids that exercise is good for your muscles, brain, bones, etc. I am without a doubt a better mom, wife, and just overall person if I am getting my workouts in consistently.

Change. Be ok with change. Depending on life events, career, age of kids, what you have for time and money is going to constantly evolve. When my kids were infants I would prop them next to my bike or weights. Once they were mobile, that plan didn’t work anymore. Sometimes it’s frustrating having to break up fights, re direct them, or have to alter your workouts because they are crawling all over you. But, when they join in and try to copy you or ask “mom can we go workout to get stronger” it makes all those frustrations worth it. Sometimes two days a week is simply all that week allows for, others I can get in six.

Enjoyment. I often get asked what is the best type of exercise and there is a plethora of research to debate this. However, the exercise you are going to do is ultimately the best kind. If you hate running, don’t run. If you hate HIIT classes, don’t do them. There are two things I do recommend though- walking/being active throughout the day and resistance training. Resistance training can come in many forms; it doesn’t mean you have to join a competitive weight lifting gym. Use physical activity as a time to catch up with friends or family - take a walk, swim, bike ride, or try new class together.

Motivation. Let’s get away from the only reason we want to exercise is to drop the number on the scale. Instead; I want to gain strength, I want to gain endurance, I want my joints to hurt less, I want to maintain bone density, I want to improve my sleep, my mental health, my digestion, my heart health…the list is endless. #knowyourwhy

Fear. Don’t be afraid to try something new or ask for help. You never know who also may be wanting to try something new, but is to afraid to ask. Ask your friend to try a new class, everyone was the newbie once. Don’t worry about what other people think while you’re working out. And to be honest, they probably aren’t even paying attention. Pop in some head phones, crank up the 90s music (ok maybe that’s just me) and tune out the to do list, stress, and enjoy the endorphins.

Finding the time is hard, especially as a parent with little kids. But remember soon they may be asking you to go for a bike ride and to go one mile more than last time.