February 26, 2021

Being a mom is exhausting! Not only is it physically taxing, but most would argue that it takes a bigger toll on you mentally. Between juggling all your kids’ extracurricular activities, having a million tabs open in your brain, and trying to meet your kids’ every need, it’s no wonder most moms don’t have a solid workout routine. Sometimes just finding the time to exercise seems like more of a workout than the exercise itself. Add in the demands of a 9-5 job and it’s near impossible to get a good workout done.

While fitting in a 60-minute sweat session at the gym is probably not feasible for many moms out there, squeezing in short 15-minute workouts throughout the day is much easier to manage. You’ll be surprised what you can do in 15 minutes!

We all know exercise does wonders for your physical and mental health like reducing depression and anxiety, relieving stress, and making you feel strong and resilient. So, why is it that moms, who undoubtedly need these benefits the most, are the least likely to be reaping these benefits? Check out these tips on how to find a workout routine that works for you.

Find a Routine You Enjoy

The key for busy moms to find a workout routine that works for them is to find their favorite way to work out and stick to it. If you don’t enjoy your workout, you will be less likely to do it.

Now, I’m not saying you will always excitedly jump up when it’s time to do your workout, but you should at least take joy in the activity itself. For example, if you are not into yoga you shouldn’t even bother pushing yourself to do it. All you will do is dread the time you’re supposed to do it (and probably find any excuse to skip it that day).

Workout routines for busy moms: you can make it work

Involve the Whole Family

Sometimes, it’s just not possible to step away from your children or spouse to fit in even a short workout. Don’t let that stop you from getting active and burning some calories. There are plenty of fun activities to do with the whole family.

Stuck at home with a newborn who needs constant holding? Try wearing your baby while you do your workout. That little bit of added weight will help you get that extra burn from your lunges and squats. An added perk is the extra bonding time you get with your sweet baby.

Once your kids get older, the options are endless on what you’re able to do. Activities like having a dance party, playing tag outside, or going for a walk around the neighborhood together are great ways to burn those calories and teach your kids the importance of taking care of your body. You could even have them try a workout with you. Your kids (or even spouse) might surprise you by getting into yoga or pilates. It’s worth a shot!

Fit It in Whenever and Wherever You Can

Planning time into your day for your workout is always the best way to stay consistent. If you don’t plan time to workout, odds are it just won’t happen. Some of the best times to schedule your workout include times when your kids are otherwise occupied. For example, working out before the kids wake up, after they go to bed at night, while they nap, or while your spouse watches them is the best way to ensure you get an uninterrupted workout.

Workout routines for busy moms: you can make it work

Sometimes you just can’t find more than a few free minutes in a day without your family needing your attention. Don’t let that prevent you from getting in at least a little workout. Days like these are when you need the stress relief of a workout the most!

This might sound silly, but squeezing in a mini workout when you go to the bathroom or just before you get in the shower is a great way to get that daily movement in. Five or ten minutes multiple times throughout your day will add up. Check out these mini-workouts you can do next time you need to squeeze a workout into your day.

Mini Workout #1

  • 25 Jumping Jacks
  • 60 Second Jog in Place
  • 25 Squats
  • 15 Pushups
  • 25 Lunges
  • 20 Sit-ups

Mini Workout #2

Repeat this workout 2-3 times

  • 10 Squats
  • 10 Push-ups
  • 10 Sit-ups
  • 10 Tricep Dips
  • 10 Squat Jumps
  • 20 Second Plank

Mini Workout #3

  • 20 Jump Squats
  • 20 Sumo Squats
  • 15 Side Lunges
  • 30 Hips Bridges
  • 30 Crunches
  • 30 Russian Twists
  • 10 Push-ups
  • 30 Second Plank

It doesn’t really matter what you do as long as you are moving your body. Fifteen minutes may not seem like much, but you will be surprised at what you can do in that time. Stop fixating on the excuses why you can’t fit in a workout and make a decision to make it work.


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