Parenthood should not signal the end of your dedication to health and fitness. Although your schedule and routine may change, it is still possible to get the exercise your body needs. If you are willing to try new things, there are plenty of workouts that can accommodate your busy schedule. Here are three creative ways to exercise with kids.
Nap time
Nap time is the perfect chance to get in a quick workout. Because you’ll need to stay within earshot of your little one, quiet, at-home workouts may be best. Skip the noisy and cumbersome equipment and consider practicing calisthenics. Calisthenic exercises use your own body weight to create resistance. You probably are already quite familiar with the concept. Squats, lunges, push-ups and sit-ups are just a few of the long list of exercises that qualify as calisthenics. The reps, duration and execution of these exercises can be adjusted and customized to target your specific goals. You can effectively mix-and-match moves to create the perfect thirty minute workout, without ever interrupting the peace and serenity of naptime. Yoga and pilates also fit the bill for impactful, near-silent, workouts.
Gym daycare
If you’re comfortable with childcare and are looking to get out of the house, try heading to your local gym. Gym clubs appeal to parents who seek variety, access to the latest and greatest equipment and services, a personal trainer, a change of environment or a chance to socialize. Almost every gym offers a form of daycare, although accepted ages do vary. When signing up for your gym membership, make sure to ask for specific information regarding the fees, time limits and policies of the kids’ area. By law, people who work with children in a public domain are required to pass a thorough fingerprint-based background check. While this is undoubtedly comforting, you may still want to bring a list of questions to address any lingering fears or concerns. Also, remember you can drop by the childcare center to check on your child at any point during your workout. Gym daycares meet the needs of parents by providing age-appropriate fun to keep your kiddos busy while you work up a sweat.
Joint Workouts
Why not workout with your children? Check out the list of kid-friendly exercises below!
For parents of babies:
For parents of toddlers and older:
Make sure to have a backup plan in case your workout partner is having a rough day. And as with any exercise, prioritize safety. To keep your baby safe, avoid exercising to the point of fatigue. When in doubt, don’t push past your limits. If you feel you need an extra challenge, finish up your workout with calisthenics that don’t include your little one.
As long as you remain consistent, there is no wrong way to approach your workout routine. Know that you may have to deviate from your plan some days, and that’s ok. Keep these three kid-friendly exercise tips handy and with a little trial and error, you’ll find the perfect regimen for you and your child.
