Wine Country CrossFit

As a single parent, finding the time, money and energy to stay in shape may sound impossible.  Chances are you already feel stretched too thin on all your resources.  However we have some terrific tips to help you reframe how you envision a workout and make a fitness routine part of your lifestyle.

Making Time

One of the hardest resources for single parents to allocate more of is time.  Between work schedules, school events, tending the children, housekeeping, and running errands, parents often feel obligations outway opportunities.  However experts at Today offer some terrific advice for reframing your day to squeeze in a workout:

Playtime.  Turning playtime with the children into a window of opportunity is a simple and fun way to be more active.  Instead of gathering in the family room to watch a film, gather in the yard for boules or take a brisk walk with the dog.  When weather is disagreeable, push aside the furniture and turn up some music for dancing. 

Naptime. When you lay a little one down for nap it’s your chance to do something for yourself.  You can pull out a yoga mat to exercise at home, or settle your baby into a jogging pram to go out for a run. 

Friends. Connecting with a friend is a terrific way to enhance your workout.  You can schedule after your children are at school, or coordinate playdates with activities involving the children.  You also can take turns babysitting so you each have a chance to fly solo now and then. 

Hobbies. Engaging in a new hobby you can enjoy with your children is a fun way to get into and maintain an exercise routine.  Hiking, ice skating, or badminton require a minimal investment to get started.  Another great option is to go exploring together.  Enjoy area museums or shopping centres.  Remember that if you are out moving, you are better off than if you are lounging at home. 

Errands.  Turn errands into your fitness programme by pulling your children in a wagon or carrying little ones in a backpack-style carrier.  Park in the farthest parking spaces, walk the stairs instead of taking lifts, and enjoy opportunities to be active whenever you can. 

Rise early. Getting up a bit before everyone else can allow you the precious time you need to squeeze in your workout.  Some studies show that those who exercise first thing in the morning are better at keeping the habit, too. 

Finding Funds

Many options that stretch your time will also stretch your money.  In addition to those ideas, the Mirror offers these good suggestions:

Keep it simple.  You don’t need fancy equipment, just some simple clothing, a mat, and free downloads.  Do some stretching and a floor routine.  Some experts note that seated exercises, using a chair or even your couch, are an effective option. 

Bicycle. Cycling to your job is an inexpensive and efficient way to get in your workout.

Fitness apps. There are apps for everything, including fitness.  Plenty of options are available, from those that track your steps and eating habits to some that make a game of exercise. 

Engaging Energy

As a single parent your responsibilities may often leave you feeling spent.  The great thing about exercise is that it creates a healthy cycle of giving you energy for putting in energy.  In fact you will feel better overall, less stressed, more vital and less susceptible to dangerous mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.  As explained by the experts at ADrugRehab, “Not only does exercise reduce stress, but it also boosts your positive, motivating emotions, too.  Part of this is biology — the body is regulating itself during exercise, but it also has to do with seeing and feeling the results of your efforts.“

Fitness For You!

Being a single parent can leave you feeling strapped for time, money and energy.  However with these great tips you can make fitness part of your lifestyle.  By reframing your perceptions about working out, you’ll find it’s a snap to squeeze it into your days and you’ll be feeling better in no time!

-Alexis Hall is a single mom to three kids. She created SingleParent.info to provide support and advice for the many families out there with only one parent in the household. She works as an in-home health nurse. When she isn’t working or spending time with her kids, she enjoys running and hiking and is currently training for a triathalon.