Being a parent often means sacrificing for our kids, and most parents have no problem giving up certain things for their special angels. However, your health should remain a priority, even after you become a parent. After all, you want to be there for many years to watch your children grow up, right? You’ll also be a good role model for your children when you make your health a priority. Read on for some health and fitness tips for busy parents.
1. Get up as early as you can
The correct amount of sleep is significant for us all. However, you may need to do your exercise routine during the early morning hours when you are a parent. An early morning workout can be the best thing for busy parents, as you can work out without distractions. If you put off your workout until later, you are more likely to be distracted by unexpected issues. Plus, early morning workouts set a standard for your day and will give you a natural energy boost.
2. Find a child-friendly fitness center
If you’re a parent of a young child, you probably already know how hard it can be to find childcare. You may even already have childcare set up for times where you are working. How can you possibly find someone else to watch your kid while you work out? The answer is child-friendly fitness centers. There are gyms in Anaheim and other cities with childcare services that will match your busy schedule.
3. Plan out your meals for the week
It’s extremely easy to get so distracted as a busy parent that you simply go through the drive-through for dinner as a time saver. It can also become expensive over time. Take a few minutes during the day on Sunday to plan out your meals for the week. Then, do your grocery shopping all at once. Knowing exactly what you will be having for dinner every day not only takes the stress off of you, it also allows you to put together healthy meals for you and your family.
4. Stick to a routine
As a parent, you already know the importance of having and sticking to your child’s routine. It’s actually no different for you when it comes to your health and fitness goals. Making exercise an essential part of your daily routine will help it become a habit you won’t want to miss. Plus, young kids will get used to the times you leave and come home. In time, your routine will help cut down on the meltdowns that often occur when you try to leave the house to exercise without your kids.
5. Wear your baby while you exercise
We know that no matter how hard some parents try to fit it in, leaving the house to enjoy a fitness routine on their own just isn’t going to be in the books. This is especially true if you have a young baby in the house that needs constant attention. Don’t worry- invest in a quality baby carrier if your child is very young. As you walk around the house with your baby strapped to you, consciously engage your leg and stomach muscles as you bend down. Remember, bend from your knees and not your back. If you can, go for a short walk around the block while carrying your child close to you. That will give you the workout you have been looking for!