I always tease my single and childless friends about working out. I often say, “Man, if I didn’t have any children, a husband and just a job you couldn’t tell me anything! I’d have the flyest body around because there would be no reason I couldn’t workout and treat my body right!” Well, I do have a husband, 2 children and a full time j-o-b, I volunteer at my church and a mommy’s group (Mocha Moms), I write a blog, keep my children are involved in activities, AND I WORK OUT! When talking to other women about their bodies, it always seems to come back to the same sentiment, “I don’t have the time! I have kids, I work, etc.”
I am not saying their reasons are not valid, but it goes back to how bad do you want to look in the mirror and be pleased with what you see. Health is important and so many times, mothers take care of themselves last. For some reason, women think that putting themselves first is selfish. Eating healthy and great physical activity is actually good for the entire family.
I agree that for most eating right and exercising is a lifestyle change and commitment. Yes there is some level of sacrifice but how happy will you be with the end result. You may have to go to bed an hour early to get up an hour early just to exercise. You may have to give up an hour of TV and use that time to work out. You also do not have to join a gym! I didn’t. My exercise of choice is Zumba. I bought the 7 DVD Zumba set off of Craigslist for $35. I work out with my set at least 3 days a week when my children go to bed.
On a few occasions I have taken my DVDs to work and closed my office door and worked out. I have also played my DVDs while my children were up and they joined in on the workout. I have even downloaded some FREE workout apps on my phone. They are 10 minutes each and workout every area of my body. I do these while watching TV, on lunch break, wherever I fit them in. That’s just it, I fit in my workout because it’s important to me. If it’s important to you – there is always a way to make it work.
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HippyFitMom
July 17, 2012 at 10:58 pmTotally agree. Taking care of yourself is not selfish….it in fact benefits your family. It helps with our sanity as well…well mine at least. Taking care myself helps me to be a better mother and wife.
Karen
July 23, 2012 at 8:58 pmGreat post! I often struggle with the balance!