Best Workouts for Moms

September 7, 2015

We know that it’s hard to make time to work out when caring for children, especially small children who cannot be away from you for long. That's why we put together some easy and inexpensive ways that you can still get a workout in from the convenience of your home. This will leave you feeling (and looking) healthy - who doesn't want that?!

1. Hula hooping is fun for children, but if you hula hoop for 10 minutes, you will get a great cardio/core body workout and strengthen your abs. Dollar stores sell hula hoops, and your youngsters can join in and hula hoop with mommy as well. It’s so much fun, it won’t even feel like a workout!

2. Yoga is a great way to relax for a moment and focus on the movements of the poses. Yoga is good for general toning, but there are specific poses that stretch and strengthen certain parts of the body. If you don’t have the time or resources to go to a yoga studio bi-weekly, you can always invest in yoga DVDs or cable channels that show yoga/morning meditation shows. Within a few sessions, you will already feel a difference in your balance and breathing, and the toning will come with time and dedication. Another great resource for free videos is Youtube. With thousands of videos, you will be sure to find something that works for you!

3. Similar to yoga, workout DVDs in general can be a great way to work out in proximity to your child. If your child distracts you from your yoga, try workout DVDs like Zumba and anything by Jillian Michaels. They will keep your body moving, but your mind can retain focus on your child. You could also have them join you in your Zumba; with the Latin inspired beats and the wide movements, you two will dance your way to a healthier body.

4. Use props from your everyday life to do 5-10 minute workout drills. Use the stairs to do step-ups. A sturdy chair can be used to do chair squats (which are similar to a normal squat, but no sitting; instead, tap your bum on the bottom of the chair). If you are at the playground with your child, you can even do swing crunches. You simply sit on the swing with your feet placed firmly on the ground, hold on and lean back, while tightening the abs. From there, bring your knees to your chest as you exhale, then inhale as you straighten your legs. These workout drills add up if they are done frequently, which means that anytime is a good time to work out.

Being a mother does not mean that you shouldn’t make time for your health, so we hope that these tips are helpful in finding ways to effectively workout at home. 

Is there anything else you would add? We'd love to hear the workout tips and tricks you incorporate into your busy lives. Let us know in the comments!