How to Squeeze in Exercise With Kids in Tow
By Genevieve Cunningham
Kids are great. They’re fun and energetic and completely loveable. But let’s be serious: They also make some parts of life incredibly difficult. Like exercise! If you have kids, you already know how difficult it can be to squeeze in a workout with kids in tow. If you want to change your body, improve your health, and get in a great sweat session, take a look at how you can accomplish it even when a babysitter isn’t available.
Let Them Join In
If your kids are old enough, they may be able to do the workout with you. Pop in an at-home DVD and let the whole family join in. If your kids are small, use them as weights as you squat or lunge. Or put them in a stroller and take them for a walk. Allowing them to join in -- however that has to be done -- is one of the best ways to ensure your workout gets completed.
Utilize Kid-Friendly Locations
Sometimes all it takes is finding the right spot. Take your kids to a local park and let them play while you walk or jog around the track. No track? Just walk around the play area. If a park isn’t available try going to a friend’s house and let all of the kids play together while you and the adult friend work out. Finding a place where your kids can be entertained is a great way to get in your workout without worrying about them nonstop.
Ask for Help
If you really want to get fit, find someone to trade shifts with you. Go work out while your spouse has the kids, and then trade. Offer to do something for Grandma if she’ll take the kids for an hour. Trade slots with a friend with children so that everyone gets some time at the gym. Asking for help or trading favors with other people in your life may not be exactly what you were looking for, but it can allow you enough time to squeeze in a workout without too much hassle.
The bottom line is that working out with kids is often really tough. But it can be done if you’re willing to make some sacrifices and plan ahead. Use these tips to get in your workout and boost your health, even when there’s not a babysitter in sight.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Clifton Park, N.Y.
