So you’ve had a baby -or two- and it just never seems to be a good time to get started with the whole working out thing. I totally get it, after having each of my kids, lack of sleep managed to steal away most of my workout motivation.
After sharing my post on how I’ve found my groove when it comes to working out after having kids; many of my readers emailed me and asked me to backtrack a little and share how to get started with a workout routine. So today I am going to share a few helpful tips to help you get started, whether you just had a baby a month ago or eight years ago. It’s all good!
I first want to acknowledge you for realizing that working out isn’t a chore, it’s something we need to do to take care of ourselves. Making the decision to begin a new routine is a huge step and one that deserves to be celebrated!
So, when you are just getting started out, it can be pretty difficult to remember exactly where to begin. When you are trying to plan it out though, be sure and remember that starting an exercise routine will change your life. The benefits of working out range from weight loss to improved health and even improved sleep and boosted self-confidence, all of which are great reasons to take on this new journey. Don’t let the stress of starting out intimidate you and make you change your mind.
Need more help getting started working out after a long break? I did a whole podcast about “finding time” and getting activity into your daily life. Listen in below!
So let’s get started with a few things to keep in mind:
Assess your current fitness level
It’s totally ok to pick up where you left off a year ago (before having a baby) at a lower intensity level. However, if you haven’t worked out in nearly a decade, getting started by adding 20-minute brisk walks is a great idea. After a few weeks, your body will get used to moving, and then you can look into other workout options.
Check out group classes at your local gym
When you need a little motivation to work out, there is nothing like going to a group fitness class. It’s easy to be a little intimidated by the music, keeping up with the instructor’s pace, and the people in the class that look like all they do is work out. Trust me; everyone has been where you are, and they all had the “day-1” experience.
I suggest you show up a few minutes early and introduce yourself to the instructor. Let her (or him) know that it’s your first day and that you are just getting started. This will ensure that they are more conscious of repeating the instructions and providing modifications for the exercises.
On the plus side, if you like the class and show up on a regular basis, the instructor will be your #1 fan when it comes to making sure you show up. Miss a couple of days and she’ll also be the first one to ask “where have you been?”
Introducing myself to the instructor helped me get over the fear of trying new classes and feeling less than coordinated. Now, I know they know that I’m not a total kluz, instead, they know I’m trying to keep up with the class.
Set baby goals
It’s easy to say “I want to lose all the baby weight” but it’s simpler to feel like you are never getting there because the goal is not defined enough. Instead, I’ve always said, I am going to lose these 5 pounds or, I am going to go to the gym 3 times this week. Notice that I didn’t say “I want” instead, I internalized the goal by speaking what I am going to do.
Make a friend
Look around. There is always someone in a group class that is fidgeting or raises their hand when the instructor says “is this anyone’s first time?” If you have 5 minutes after class, introduce yourself to that person. You might be surprised that they too have similar exercise goals.
I did this with a woman in my 5 am spin class (crazy, I know) and now we text each other to make sure the other one is on their way to class each Monday in the wee hours. When one of us isn’t there, the other texts “where were you this morning?” or “I missed you this morning” and then, offer to meet up at a different class that week.
I’m not saying that you need to find new friends at the gym, although if your current friends don’t support your health journey, you might need new ones! (ha!). What I’m saying is that finding a workout buddy has helped me tremendously each time I set out to get started with a workout routine (or switched gyms, etc).
Schedule it
This final tip is something that I find helps me most when it comes to avoiding the excuse “I just don’t have the time.” Because the truth is, that we all have time for the things we value or find ourselves needing to do.
Have a doctor’s appointment for your child? You put it on the calendar. Need to buy food? You make the time. So why not allocate time in your calendar for yourself? Remember that your health matters and that you are important, so start treating yourself that way by giving yourself the time you need to get some endorphins flowing and start feeling great.
And, if you work full-time and don’t have time to go after work, go first thing in the morning. I hit the gym at 5 am three times per week for this reason. While I don’t like getting up at 4:35 in the morning, I do love having the excuse to go to bed when my kids go to bed. Always a plus side.
Do you have any other tips for others just getting started with working out? What do you do that works for you?
Misty
So I am getting motivated to work out again after tackling some joint pain with my doctors and finally succeeding for the most part ! I’d love to work out in the mornings but I’m a single mom and have nobody to watch my son to go for a walk or to the gym. Working out in my living room isn’t working as I don’t push myself or don’t do it at all 🙁
There are no available classes at my gym after work (they’re all during the day) and I can’t afford to get another gym membership as I get a scholarship for 50% off at this one as that’s where my son does day camp in the summer while schools out and I’m at work. I feel like the odds are against me and I don’t know where to start 🙁
Laura Fuentes
Hi Misty, I know it can be very discouraging to find workouts on your own. There are many free resources online for workouts at home which would require no child care. Here is a helpful blog post on the best apps for working out (at home and outside) and these are some free workout channels on youtube. I hope this helps!
Alexandra
Having a workout buddy definitely helps me workout more often. Also, love your workout leggins! So cute!1
Heather
I am a mom of 9. I workout about 5 times a week. With babies or toddlers it has been just walking with a strolller or carrier. Now that I have bigger kids and 2 toddlers, we ride bikes a lot. I go to the gym several times a week and then we play together as a family. Kick ball, soccer, tennis, tag, hiking, swimming or biking. It is important to me to set goals and remind myself that I am more than a mom, but also show the kids that taking care of your body is important, too! I have found that one of the biggest
motivators for me is eating healthy. If I eat clean, I have more energy to do more. Also, the exercise is addicting. It feels good and makes me feel better about myself. When I am seeing how much it takes to burn off a brownie, I am more disciplined about how frequently I consume them!!! Good for you, Laura, for setting an example for your kids and for posting this!
Kayla
Love this! Thank you for sharing!
We joined the gym about 7 months ago and it’s lovely that our kids request to go there and play while we work out. I started using a fitbit and joined stepbet to challenge me to get moving. I’m up to 3 mile run + 3 mile bike workouts. It is amazing how setting goals really does help!
Priscilla
I hadn’t worked out in years so I finally decided to start a workout routine last June. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I workout 3 to 4 times a week and I’ve never felt better. With two kids, a husband and a full-time job, I wasn’t sure if I could commit to exercise, but I wake up at 4:45 (when everyone is still asleep and I’ll get no interruptions ) and I feel so good afterwards. Thanks for this post!!
Laurie
After having twins and 3rd baby 2 years later I definitely got off track with working out. I’m up to 2 workouts a week but the thing that really helps with my energy level is that I’ve activated the hourly chime on my watch. At work my watch beeps on the hour which signals to me I need to walk the stairs (I work on the 5th floor) once or twice. It takes me only a few minutes so I feel I can easily fit it in and getting myself moving every hour really helps me feel energized.
Sue T
A couple of years ago my husband decided to get a Fitbit because of an incentive at work. We ended up both getting them and started walking together several times a week. It has been a great way for us to be more active as well as have time to communicate about anything going on with work or with our kids. Doing it together has made all the difference.
Laura Fuentes
What a great idea!
Rs Mom
After a major injury, I had to be content with starting small and being consistent with just 15 minutes 3 days a week before being able to work up to more. Also helpful is listening to your body and identifying whether you’re dealing with injury or overuse pain (Stop!) or just the regular resistance or building pain
Susanne
I am at the beginning stages. I am pretty active in my job as a PreK teacher, but I really need to be more conscious of scheduling real work out time.
Mollie Mulligan
I have a very hard time prioritizing and sticking to a routine. It always seems like things get in the way of my schedule- husband traveling- can’t go to the gym at 6am. Child home sick- can’t go after work while she’s at day care etc. I try writing it in my calendar but…
I often think about what a friend told me once – “never once do you say to your self, ‘I wish i HADN’T excersized today’- but you do sometimes say ‘I wish I had!
Thanks for the post!
Katia
You have to find some form of exercise that is FUN!!! It might be running, but it might not be — maybe it’s kick boxing or ballroom dancing or biking. If you don’t enjoy it you won’t want to do it and you’ll find ways not to make the time. It’s also really important to have a ‘buddy’ so if you back out you are letting someone else down — that get’s me out the door lots of days.
Sandra
For me outdoor exercise is the key. I never could stick with a gym routine and I hate workout CDs. But I find going outside for my exercise really helps. Plus the sun expose is great for Vitamin D levels and for healthy sleep patterns. Plus the dogs love the exercise as well. Usually my 13 year old comes along as well, so it is a great time to let him talk to me about whatever is on his mind. Family bonding as well.
Adrienne
As long as I don’t go home from work and sit down, I can usually get some kind of exercise in, most days. If my butt touches the couch though, it’s all over. It has helped a lot that my son has baseball practice four nights a week. I head to the park with the same plan, don’t sit down on the bleachers. As soon as he starts practicing I start walking. I’m slow at it, but I’m walking three miles. I’ve also been walking one mile during my lunch break. Tomorrow, I plan on getting up earlier and doing a Leslie Sansone 3 mile walk video.
Erin Hopkins
Consistency. It can be 5 min or an hour. 1 day isn’t going to make or break, so I realized that I can’t get down on myself if I can only get 5 min in one day as long as I did something and was consistent about continually getting something in. It adds up over time.
Eileen
To make sure that I actually go to the gym, I text a friend to invite them along and to “say” the words aloud to someone else.
Toni
Just this year I’ve started a new at home faith based workout program. She posts monthly strength, cardio and yoga videos that are all centered on faith. I’ve grown to love strength training after being a cardio junky for so long! I feel like I’m physically and spiritually working out at the same time!
Ravit
Love this post!
I just started a running group! Best thing I did for myself. I’m a mother of 5 and work full time. Youngest is 3 oldest is 12.
I sit at a desk and basically don’t move. I decided I needed to do something. II am not getting any younger and I need to be more active.
I run 3 times a week at 6:30 and my days are just a whole lot better, calmer…
I love it!
Kathy Coy
I have a fitbit and try to get 10,000 steps a day. On a normal days, that’s pretty hard with a desk job. So I have to make sure I try to walk 2 miles at lunchtime each day to help meet the goal.
Laura Fuentes
IS IT EVER! OMG. The days I’m in the office (about 4 days per week) I don’t even makme my 9k goal! sheesh. And sadly, spinning doesn’t count towards steps. I get you!
Tawsha
I find that getting my gym bag ready before bed helps me be ready to go in the morning! This way if I have errands to run before the gym and get busy in the morning I can’t use the excuse that I didn’t have time to get it together!
I usually lay out my gym clothes, shoes and socks. I also like to have my headphones, a snack and water bottle ready with my bag too!
It just helps having the routine and knowing that everything is ready to go even if things get busy before gym time.
Marion
I love my Cize and Piyo workouts at home. Getting back on track this week. Waking up early is key for me and then in the evening with kids activities and homework I don’t have to worry about getting my workout in. I also love going to yoga on Saturday mornings. Roll out of bed and straight to yoga.
Laura
I have 4 kids that I homeschool, 3 of whomever have special needs, one of them being fully dependent on me. I blew out my back about 4 years ago moving her. So, I am the queen of excuses. After several years of chiropractic, epidural, and therapy, I started to feel better. I signed up for for a deep water aerobics class with a friend. A year later, I am feeling better and just signed up for a 3rd class. I’m doing it at a local community college where the prices are reasonable. My back still has limitations, but I feel SO much better. It’s been worth the difficulties of having people watch my child so I can be gone! Never give up, there are always going to be challenges, but there will always be ways to work around them…
Laura Fuentes
I love your attitude, Laura. I too have a, zero excuses mentality (now) and my back isn’t too great (check it out). Way to go!
Jill Mansanares
Working out right after I drop off my kids at school is helpful to keep me on track with my fitness and overall wellness desires. I want to be in good condition to be able to snow ski, play basketball, soccer, hike and bike with my 11 and 9 y.o. daughters.
We are conscious of our food and drink intake which helps keep our family relatively fit and free from illness. No soda and low sugar diet.
A_Shoemaker
I dont do mornings…i find my best workout time while dinner is cooking. I come home and put a casserole in the oven or a recipe in my pressure cooker then turn on a DVD, ride the stationary bike or walk/run on the treadmill for 30 min. Once my workout is done and dinner is ready we all sit down for dinner and talk about our day. It helps me to decompress after work and I am ready for bed by 9:30 but feel great.
Rachael
My fav fitness “tip” to keep in mind is to change up my workouts to keep it fun. Hike, bike, playing outside with the kids, yoga, Pilates, sometimes a housework, etc… it doesn’t and shouldn’t be the same thing everyday. At least for me, I get bored easily.
Debbie Hausher
my gym has mobile app with class schedule so I copy it into my calendar so I don’t forget it. Agree that we need to make good health for us a priority as well.
nancy
You ladies are inspiring me to get back into the routine.
Thank you all!
Kyla Nadeau
After just having my third baby, and being unable to keep up with my 7 and 4 year olds I know I need to do something. I live in a rural area not close to any gym but I bought some videos and a exercise machine. Now to schedule in some time and when the weather gets nice, start walking with the baby.
Laura Fuentes
Good for you Kyla!
Roxanne
My life can get pretty hectic as a work from home parent and no additional child care. I keep a stash of work out videos I can use early morning before the kids even lift thier heads. My gym has a day care room I use twice per week and meet a friend. I used to feel so guilty taking time for myself, but I am a better mom when I feel good!
Faith F.
Doing HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) workouts have helped me immensely with time management and working out while being a mom to 2 very active boys. I can do a workout in 20-30 minutes with the same results if not better compared to when I was doing 45-60 minute workouts!!
Jody
I am going to try to take a break from work every day to take a walk. I am a working Mom with a full time job. And I carpool to/from work. My schedule doesn’t allow for joining a gym. But every day I sit at my desk and eat my lunch. Could I get my 10,000 steps in during the lunch hour? I bet I could! And I bet I would be more invigorated to tackle the rest of the day.
Laura Fuentes
10000 steps at lunch? wow! you go girl!!
Elizabeth
I would love to start doing something! It’s super hard to get motivated and stick to it… especially without the finances for a gym membership or friends near by the join me. But, I think I’m going to add 2 mornings a week of a 20 min morning walk. It’s starting to get nice enough that it would be a great start to my day.
Thanks for sharing how you got started!!
Laura Fuentes
Every little bit helps Elizabeth. it doesn’ have to be perfect, just something for you.
Roopkaur Khalsa
Im also in similar situation with my kids as I am a single mother and find it hard to find time to work out with working full time and taking care of kids. Instead of going to the gym I find time to play actively with my kids…whether it’s a game of tag, a soccer match or a bbicycle ride together. We get time together and I get to set an example for them at the same time.
Sarah
I started working out twice a week. Now I calendar 5 classes a week at the gym knowing I’ll make at least 3..
I work out after dropping kids at school and I pack a gym bag to shower and change so I can go to work or run errands after. Our gym has a sauna and steam room too so when I have time I give myself some spa time.
Melissa
For me, it’s mixing it up when my workout routine gets boring or I get stuck in a rut. My latest favorite is Mommastrong.com, (only $2/mo) and joined her “hook” program to start. After a week of feeling tired after the 15 min workouts, I now feel energized after them. Laura, I totally agree that assessing your fitness level is important, for me this meant modifying some of the exercises to “take baby steps” and not give up!
Laura Fuentes
such an important point!! Yes, I’ve tried going full force a few times and it only came back to bite me. Now, slow and steady 🙂
Sarah
I joined a family-friendly class in the building adjacent to my son’s preschool. It’s so much easier to drop him off, walk upstairs with my toddler, and workout with other preschool moms who expect to see me and other kids for my daughter to play with than it was trying to stick to a time at home with kids constantly interrupting me. I can tell I’m stronger and i miss it when I can’t make the class.
Laura Fuentes
what a great idea!!
Georgina Shallcross
Hi, I like to try and vary my work outs, have a few different things that are easy to get started when you have 30 mins free! One thing I love is to run with my sons to school while they ride their bikes. It means we all get a great start to the day. The boys think it’s fun and I’ve squeezed in my exercise before 9am. It’s a win win. Then when I can’t get out of the house, like last week with a sick child I found a workout I could do at home involving sit ups, planks, squats etc. There’s lots out there if you look. YouTube is a great source.
Sylvia Baker
I’m still in the beginning stages. I walk with the kids after school a few times a week and try to do some youtube workouts when I can. Scheduling is the part I can’t seem to get done! I’m going to keep at it though! Thanks for the motivation!
Laura Fuentes
You’ve GOT this Sylvia!
Theresa
Thanks for this post. I just started getting back on track after having 3 babies in 4 years. I HAVE TO watch what I eat, and that’s key for me. I won’t get any activity in if I’m too full/sleepy/uncomfortable to move. I’m starting small and just trying to get at least one more active activity in my day-maybe a walk or playing around outside with my kids. If I’m moving on purpose-it counts for now. I know that will change as my kids grow. Right now, I’m trying to learn how I operate. 🙂
Karey V.
I think realizing that I need to work out based on my autoimmune diagnosis and embrace rest has given me more freedom to care for myself gently.
Breana Williams
If possible, Accountability is great and especially having someone that will help motivate you. With summer upon on its so much easier to sneak some workouts in, walk instead of drive, and even doing little workouts with our children. They are watching our every move, we should set a healthy lifestyle example! 🙂
Mindy
While 2 of my kids are at school, and the other 2 napping, I take advantage of my only downtime and head to the basement for a workout. Nap time is the perfect time if you have little ones. Yes, you may get interrupted at times, but a little workout is better than nothing. And, I get to catch up on my shows while exercising! Win, win!
Amy C.
I just read an article in the NY Times about how running can be addictive as a social sport. When we run and are in community with others who also run, then we’re more likely to be challenged by their results. Any activity we can do in community will always merit more successful results, I’m convinced!
Laura Fuentes
I couldn’t agree more!
Callie
Great post! I work full time and getting a workout in is my last priority most of the time. But if I can find a way to include my kids, that makes everyone happy!! Right now it’s a walk with a stroller but I’m looking at getting some bike gear!
Heidi
I live in AS and getting in walks is hard as things are already heating up. I do have a gym membership, but have been self-conscience about going. I need to get out of my head and commit to a minimum of 3 days per week, and work my way up to 5!
Laura Fuentes
I’m going to have to come visit you in AS!
Fran
I am a mom of 5 kids. I workout 4-6 times per week. Sometimes 7. I am not superwoman. I have achieve goals that have changed the way I perceive myself like qualifying and running the Boston Marathon, twice and doing a triathlon and a few Ultra-Marathon. When I workout I feel good, I am more efficient throughout the day and the companionship of working out with one friend or more provides me with invaluable mom tips and mom therapy. My friend calls it moving therapy ;-). When I work out alone I call it loving meditation. I wake up at 4:45am most mornings and work-out before the kids get up. When I get back for 7:00am I kiss them good morning and get them ready for school. I have more patience and I am in a better mood. My advice is to join a club any kind: running club, swimming club, cycling club, Tae Kwondo, whatever…. meet people don’t be shy to tell them that you feel intimidated, that you are worried about holding back the group, you’ll be surprised how many people will support and help you on your journey. We all had to start somewhere. I spent 20 years telling my husband I could never run a marathon and that he was crazy for doing so. At 40 when I put my mind to it and I got started I made a training plan and I taped it on the fridge. I told my kids what my goal was and they made me accomptable for it. They would ask:” mom, did you do you hill training today because it is not highlighted!”
I lost the 20 pounds I had gain to cherish my 5 kids and I cannot see the day when I’ll stop moving. So when someone joins our group and says I can’t, I walk run slow with them and tell them they can, just one step at a time.
Laura Fuentes
Fran, you are an inspiration. I love SO MANY THINGS about this comment and I’m in awe of how you’ve become a role model for your children by showing them that you are important. way to go!
Buffy
I just started working out again after taking a two year break from it. Life happens right? Is started with an easy video. I found that I was more willing to get up and work out in the morning if it wasn’t going to be painful, just a. Ice easy burn. I ow that I am back into it, I found that it is easier to stay with it if I do one intense 30 minute workout to get the heart rate up and really followed by another more moderate work out for 15-30 minutes to keep the burn going. If I do a 60 minute video I get overwhelmed and give up half way through it
Laura Fuentes
You’ve got this! so proud of you for getting back into it.
Amy Duffer
So glad I read this. Want to start but always put others needs ahead of me. Going to start doing this for me! First goal is 2x per week.
Laura Fuentes
Let’s do this Amy!!
Kelly galasso
I know a trainer is an expense fo many of us like myself but I finally hired someone to help
Me take accountablility for my health- we meet twice a week for an hour and this has motivated me to then getting to the gym at least know more day a week- I never cancel and I look forward to not stressing about the gym and what I’m gonna do when I get there – I feel energized in my daily rountine now – Is make better eating choices too I guess
Knowing I am spending this money on a weekly basis helps me to make better decisions- I felt guilty about it for about a week but now I know I deserve this ! I pack my lunch to work instead of buying and my new lunxury is spending my extras cash on me ! It feels great 🙂
Laura Fuentes
so proud of you Kelly!
Sharon E
I run roughly a 5k distance 3 days a week.
Angela B.
The best tip for me is to schedule my workout. I have three kids, work part-time, and am working on my Master’s. I always find an excuse to not work out, but when I do get the motivation it feels great. I enjoy just being able to go out the front door for a run. This skips the part of getting in the car and thinking of reasons not to go to the gym. Running endorphins are a great motivation, but I just have to be able to get beyond those first 20 or 30 minutes. Thank you for sharing your motivation tips Laura! I always need this.
Heidi
Now that the weather is beautiful, I take my kids to the park twice a day and walk laps around the playground while they play. The miles add up and we are all in a better mood when we get home.
Mari B.
I live far from family and have no one to watch my little ones in order for me to go out and workout. So my solution was buying various workout dvds to do at home. I really like workout dvds that include dancing. My kids even join in with all the great music.
Laura Fuentes
How fun! I love when my kids want to get active with me.
Alex
My best advice is to put your workout on your calendar, get dressed, and go. That’s the hardest part- just getting yourself to the gym, class, or pavement. Drag yourself out there- once you’re there the hardest part is done. And every time gets easier because it becomes a habit.
Rachel
I need to schedule the time in my calendar to go to the gym. I always keep a bag with workouts clothes ready to go at my office so I can stop there on my way home!
Heather Bee
I am in the struggle zone of starting my workout and keeping it a routine. Two years ago I started a couch to 5k program with co-workers which was amazing. Apparently my back was still swayed from several pregnancies however, and I herniated a disk in my back during the running. I’ve been stuck with how to start back up at an intensity and routinely enough that I don’t reinjure myself. When I do get out the door for walking or yoga I am in heaven. I need to schedule it like you suggested, perhaps with a friend. I know those are successful tools. Now I need to just implement them :). Maybe some headphones and some good music will be my reward! 😉 Congratulations on your success Laura!
Rachel Butler
I love Beachbody on Demand. So many workouts to choose from plus a cooking show! Right now I am doing Core De FORCE and C25K week 3! Also my advice is no lose the scale and focus on inches lost and how strong you feel
Laura Fuentes
I’ve done P90x and Turbo Fire in the past (pre Beachbody online) and they were great. I had no idea they have a cooking show!
Michelle Melville
When going to early morning workouts, I found it helpful to have everything on my bathroom counter ready to go the night before, such as clothes, shoes, socks, music, and keys. Makes getting up early a little less dreadful!
Laura Fuentes
that’s exactly what I do!
Erica
My two tips would be to get up early when nothing else will interfere with your workout, and have a friend to workout with for accountability. If I know someone is waiting in the morning for me to workout, I’m more likely to get out of bed when I don’t really feel like it.
Laura Fuentes
Finding an “early morning buddy” is key 😉
Joy
These are some awesome tips. When I started to workout again I went to a class and made some awesome friends. Now we motivate each other and make sure we don’t skip our workout. It really helps!
Alina carcea
I recently started working out again. I have good weeks and bad week. I can’t do ealrly mornings but after I put my daughter to bed I put on my working out clothes and go…. even if I worked 10-12 hours that day I still make myself workout. Some days I do 20-30 min but others I get ambitious and do 40-50 min. Every day is different but I persevere !
Laura Fuentes
great job Alina!
Holly
I think working out in the morning before my daughter wakes up helps me keep a routine. All I have to do is drag myself through the first few minutes of getting started, and I feel so much better afterwards. Plus it’s off my to-do list for the day. If I wait until evening, something will always get in the way (homework, laundry, cooking, laziness) It’s not easy, but nothing worthwhile is
Laura Fuentes
I love the “drag myself” because I do the same too! and it’s true, I feel so much better afterwards.
Macrina Ochoa
I joined the gym in October and tried to go in full force. Eventually I couldn’t keep up and stopped going. I’m back now but taking baby steps. I’m going to try to make it 3 times a week and eventually 5-6 times. I have a personal trainer to keep me accountable and started off slow. Just a little weight training and some cardio. Eventually I would love to do HIIT cardio and maybe get on the stair master.
Laura Fuentes
good job for realizing that it’s ok to scale back. something is always better than nothing but I see you put yourself first -and that’s a great thing.
Diana S.
I agree with you regarding going to a class at your local gym. They have good workout music and it helps keep you motivated and accountable. Also, if you go first thing in the morning, either lay out everything you need the night before or even sleep in your workout clothes to make it easier to get up and go. Once you do it the first time, it gets easier and easier since you will be motivated. I have fallen off the routine this past month and a half, but hoping to get back to it! Great post!
Elaina Peets
I’ve been going to the gym about 3x /week for the last few weeks and man do I notice how much more easier it is to get through the day (and happier too)! I start by planning the night before. I pack my workout bag including my clothes for work the next day; pack my lunch and have it ready to go in the fridge; text one of my good friends who goes with me; and go to sleep early (also sleep in my workout bra and shirt)! When I wake up in the morning all I have to do is put on my workout pants, brush my teeth, make my morning shake, grab my bags and off I go!
These other tips were great!!
Laura Fuentes
some days I run out so fast I forget to brush my teeth so you are way ahead of me 😉
Beth
Like most Moms life is crazy for me. A mom of two of two young active girls and I work full time. Add my husband works a lot, travels for business and is getting his MBA so I have had to adjust my life and put workouts on the back burner. Because two active, young children it has motivated me to get back to my fit self. I found it challenging to work out but knew that couldn’t be an excuse. So I started a Gilts on the Run team at my school. It has been great and woke up my inner (tired) athlete. It started with me just doing the workouts at practice 2 times a week and now I’m up to 5-6 times a week. To say I feel better is an understatement.
Laura Fuentes
that is amazing that you started a running club! great job Beth!!
RESHMA
I have found that keeping my bag ready to go with clothes/shoes/etc already packed has helped me keep my weekly workout goals!
Becky Nelson
The hardest thing for me about deciding to get back into shape again was getting my butt out the door that very first day. Every time I did, it got a little bit easier and I dreaded it less until I actually started looking forward to it and now I am obsessed. I started out walking because just jogging down the street was impossible for me, and now I am running a 10k several times a week and 5 miles at a time on my “easy” days. If you had told me I would be 30 pounds lighter and in love with running 4 months ago I would have laughed in your face. It is amazing how quickly our bodies adapt and strengthen. The only advice I can give is to just GET OUT THERE and do something….ANYTHING. Your body and mind will thank you! Thanks for the great article, Laura.
Laura Fuentes
You are AMAZING Becky!!! and so right! Just get out there and do it is it!! Congratulations on your newly found inner-runner!
Pam
Caring for a child with a chronic illness has disrupted my sleep routine and thrown my workouts out the door. I am going to take your advice and start with a walk today. Maybe in a few weeks I will feel like running again.
Laura Fuentes
If you can take the child with you on your walk (stroller?) the fresh air might be therapeutic for the both of you. You’ve got this! You need a little time for yourself. You can do it!
Blaine
I used to work out 5 times a week. I was in the best shape of my life. Then, life changed, I became single, and started to eat my feelings. Two years later, I’m finally getting on the right track again. I’m eating right and am dipping my toes back into the world of gyms and workouts. My goal is to get back to those 5 a week workouts!
Laura Fuentes
I started adding 2 workouts a week. Then moved up to 3. Now it’s 3-5 depending how motivated I am to wake up early 😉 But most of the time, I tell myself: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1… Go! Yes, like during a rocket launch. I do a countdown and go!