Sharing some of my favorite workout hacks for my busy mom friends out there.
Hi friends! How’s the day going so far? We’re soaking up the rest of summer – I can’t believe the kids go back to school in early August!!- and have some dinner plans tonight.
For today’s post, I wanted to share some workout hacks for my busy mom friends, especially since we’re about to head back in to the busy back-to-school season.
Being a mom is a full-time job, and finding time for yourself, let alone for workouts, can feel impossible. However, staying active is crucial for your physical and mental well-being. It’s worth it to make it happen!
Here are some practical workout hacks to help you stay consistent with your fitness routine, even with a busy schedule.
Workout Hacks for Busy Moms
1. Prioritize Short Workouts
Focus on short, high-intensity workouts that can be done in 15-20 minutes. These sessions can be just as effective as longer workouts if done correctly.
Example: HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) is a great option. For instance, a 15-minute HIIT workout could involve 30 seconds of jumping jacks, 30 seconds of squats, 30 seconds of burpees, and 30 seconds of rest, repeated for 4-5 cycles. Alternatively, a Tabata workout involves 20 seconds of intense exercise followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated for 8 rounds.
Why It Works: Short workouts are easier to fit into a busy day and can provide similar benefits to longer sessions by boosting metabolism and increasing calorie burn. They are particularly effective for busy schedules because they maximize efficiency and impact in a limited time frame.
2. Schedule Workouts Like Appointments
Treat your workout time as an important appointment that cannot be missed. Schedule it into your calendar and set reminders. This is a gamechanger for me. Every Sunday, I sit and plan out my workout times and any classes I’ll be taking. Having it on the schedule means that I’ll stick with it.
Example: Use a digital calendar to block out 20-30 minutes each day dedicated to exercise. Whether it’s early in the morning before the household wakes up or in the evening after the kids go to bed, mark it as a non-negotiable commitment. Set alarms or reminders on your phone to ensure you stick to your plan.
Why It Works: By treating workout time as a scheduled event, you create a sense of accountability and make it a priority, just like any other important task. This helps establish a routine and reduces the likelihood of skipping your workouts.
3. Involve Your Kids
Turn your workout into a family activity. Involving your kids can make exercise more fun and less of a chore.
Example: Plan family activities like a walk in the park, a bike ride, or a dance-off in the living room. You can also find kid-friendly workout videos online that everyone can follow together. Incorporating physical activities into family time helps make exercise enjoyable and helps children understand the importance of staying active.
Why It Works: Involving your kids not only helps you get your exercise in but also sets a positive example about the importanc