Back to School Workout Tips for Parents

The kids are back in school which means a little extra free time for moms and dads. While sticking to an exercise routine can be difficult for anyone, it can be especially difficult for parents of young children. While juggling kids, home life, and work can be a workout in itself, we’ve put together a blog on how to get your workouts in while the kids are in school.

Get Your Workouts in Early 

While the best time to work out is really anytime that works for you, the reality is that it’s easy to get distracted by the day’s tasks and end up missing your workout altogether. For this reason, busy parents should try to get their workout in early in the day before things get too busy. So get your kids on the bus and hit the treadmill for 20 minutes or get in a quick weightlifting workout!

Mae a Plan for Your Workouts

Once you’ve decided on the best time of day for your workouts you’ll need a plan. If you don’t have a workout routine already consider your fitness goals. Alternating cardiovascular and strength training workouts is ideal. Consider 2-3 days of cardio workouts like running on the treadmill or using an elliptical, and 2-3 days of strength training. 

Build a Home Gym

While working out in a gym or taking a class might be enjoyable, it’s not always the most realistic option. In the time it takes to drive to the gym, change, and get going, you could have already completed a workout at home. Plus, building a home gym will actually save you money in the long run! Start with one or two pieces of key equipment such as a treadmill or functional gym, then add it some free weights or other cardio equipment such as a cycle bike or rower. If you want to create an outdoor workout space a push sled, battle ropes or pylo box are great additions to consider.

Try Something New

Whether you prefer to work out at home, outdoors, or in a class, there are not many types of workouts you can do. Go for a run outside, bike through a park, take a Zumba class, try CrossFit, lift weights, or try a HIIT workout. Even if you have a workout you love, change it up now and then and do something physical you haven’t done before. For example, check out the local climbing gym or take a hike with your family. 

Find a Workout You Enjoy

Finding an exercise you enjoy is actually a really important factor to consider. If you don’t enjoy your workouts you’ll be less motivated to do them. If you like to ride your bike grab your bike and get outside or try taking a cycling class virtually and use your cycle bike at home. If you hate riding a bike but love jogging go for a run. Don’t force yourself to do workouts you hate, instead keep trying new things until something clicks.