Tips on working out when you’re a parent

New year, new resolutions. We may be at the end of the month, but, we know how hard it can be to get back into it exercise after Christmas. And that’s why we’ve left it later in the month… you know, to give you that second burst of motivation. In case, if like us, you missed the memo first time around.

If you’re a busy parent, it can be doubly hard to get into that exercise mindset. After all, let’s be honest, feeding kids, doing the school runs and then bedtimes are workouts in themselves. But, that’s where we’re on hand to help… ready, steady, PUMP IT UP.

Join the gym

Ok, ok, we know, there’s no time… but just hear us out. Did you know? People who join the gym are 65% more likely to be motivated. And there’s great news, with many gyms now open 24 hours. It means, if you’re up to it, you can do a super early workout, before tackling the kids. Yes, that alarm won’t sound great at 5am the first few times, but once you begin to see the results and feel more energetic, you’ll be bouncing out of bed…

Slowly does it

If you have a teeny tiny one, then you’ll probably just be glad you’ve conquered the hair washing rather than the deadlift. However, there’s never a better time to start than the present. New mum? Practice strengthening those pelvic floor muscles while you’re prepping their dinner, or, make an extra trip up the stairs every day. It’s all a step (😉) in the right direction.

Walk into it

Got a small one in tow and no-one to watch them while you go to the gym, then walk before you run. Grab your mini-me, strap them in their buggy and clear the cobwebs away with a stroll. Start slowly to begin with, then as you become more confident, walk briskly. Heck, after a few months, you could maybe even break into a jog. Great for your fitness and for getting baby and toddlers out and about.

Get Appy

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few years, you’ll know there’s lots of apps that are made to get you moving, both at the gym and at home. Download a few on a trial, grab that yoga mat, kettlebells and weights and get watching! Go on, give it a try. And, if you do have a baby, consider a carrier to use them as a weight. Great for squats!  Not an app fan? You can’t go wrong with a good old-fashioned DVD.  But be warned, you may end up shouting at the TV when the going gets tough. Ahem.

The advice bit…

Always make sure you wear a good pair of trainers, even if you’re working out at home. And the same goes for gym kit. Think non-sweat vests and leggings or shorts for ultimately breathability. They make a huge difference! Honest.