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Don't Drop the Ball

  • 8-25-2010
  • Categorized in: Optimom

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Imagine that you are a juggler in a circus, with balls in the air, and an unruly audience to impress.  Or a tightrope walker with only a few seconds to cross the line before the crowd “BOO’s” you off the platform. If you are a mom, new or experienced, you probably don’t have to reach very far to imagine. 

As the school year gets under way, kids’ programs resume and your tightrope of time gets shortened, the need to improve your juggling and performance skills increases, sometimes to unrealistic proportions. The only way to impress the masses is to drop a ball or two, and keep the juggling act going.  Unfortunately, while dropping some ‘balls’ off your list, the one with your name on it is usually the one that hits the floor. Now let’s be realistic...the first thing to go?  Exercise.

With all of the information out there, you probably don’t need to hear about the benefits of exercise and how it could save your life...yes, really, save it!  What you do need as a multi-tasking mom when schedules, fatigue and the next play date get in the way, are some tips to get motivated, keep exercise at the top of your list, and find TIME.

1. Schedule in your workouts.  Like a doctor’s appointment, or bank meeting.  You would only cancel it if you or your kids were sick.  If you work outside the home, find the gym nearest to your office and make a date with a trainer.

2. Be prepared.  Get the right training bra, some good shoes and a new workout outfit...accessorize if you must. Feel good before you even hit the gym.

3. Sleep.  This is for new moms, and moms who are overworked.  Putting added stress on your body through intense exercise when you are already fatigued is dangerous, and well...puts added stress on your body.  Exercise does increase energy so weigh your options carefully, then work it. 

4. Drink water-ALL DAY.  Water will increase your energy and flush out toxins preparing you for that great workout that you will eventually crave - with the added bonus of giving you a healthy glow.

5.  Bring a friend.  Make it fun, join a group class, or get a semi-private session with a trainer.  Workouts need to be fun and exciting, or you won’t stick to them.

6.  Make a list...and take things off of it.  Keep the exercise.  If you must visit with that girlfriend you’ve been neglecting since babies came along, schedule a yoga class.  Skip making the cupcakes for your kids bake sale and buy pre-made.  Instead of sitting there waiting while your daughter does ballet class, strap on your shoes and go for a power walk.

7.  Become a weekend warrior.  Get dad or a babysitter to watch the baby on Saturday and Sunday while you get out and get some YOU time, fresh air and exercise. It only takes an hour!  Again, schedule it in so that you don’t have to sacrifice this time for stuffy noses, or carpooling.

You must put the oxygen mask on yourself first before you can take care of anyone else.  Role modeling the importance of exercise and health will have your audience in awe, no matter how many balls you have in the air!

 

Julie Watson
~is the owner of AfterGlow Health & Fitness, specializing in Pre and Postnatal fitness. With 3 children to keep up with, Julie strives to stay helathy, stong and sane, naturally.
www.afterglowtoronto.com

 


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