8 Ways To Squeeze In An At-Home Workout, For Moms

Some people might think that stay-at-home moms have it easy, that there’s no reason for us not to exercise. But, moms, we know it’s not that convenient, right?

That said, I work out almost every day—and while I can vouch for the reality that it’s not easy, it is a priority. However, it took me a while to figure out my system for squeezing in workouts while cruising after toddlers.

I don’t live by my family or have a babysitter to help out. These tips have been created out of pure necessity within my life. My most important advice to all moms out there who want to exercise and feel good about themselves? Don’t wait for someone to help you out. We can do it.

Typically, my daily exercise is done by the time my husband comes home from work. If I waited for him, I probably wouldn’t workout at all or not to the same capacity because—news flash—it truly is exhausting chasing children. Additionally, he wants to exercise too.

Realize that while “chasing children” isn’t necessarily a workout, we're at a stage where we likely won't get as much exercise as we want—and that's OK.

Last weekend, my husband went mountain biking and I didn't want to miss an opportunity to work out while I waited for him to come home. So I put the baby down for her nap and took my toddler into the basement with me. True, there wasn't a lot of room for her to play in my workout area, but she had two of her favorite books and was ready to help Mama count out her reps.

At the end of the day, I workout largely so that I can chase my children—staying healthy and in shape for a lifetime with them is one of my best motivators.

Plus, one day, I hope my kids remember how I had to work at staying fit while they were little, and that this helps them develop a healthy attitude about exercise. I'm raising two daughters, and I want them to grow up with healthy body images and to know that I value myself as a human outside of being their mother. Staying active and keeping my body strong are some of the easiest ways I can think of to work toward this otherwise challenging goal.

Also here’s one last tip: be patient with yourself. Know that being in your best shape doesn’t mean looking like someone else. Make sure your workout time is adding to your self-esteem and your self-care rather than detracting from it.