Now that we have our daughter, I find that it is difficult to find the time to work out unless you schedule it into your day. I know a lot of times as moms, we think that we are taking time away from our child(ren) when we do something for ourselves, but the number 1 person in a child's life is their parent, so for this reason alone we have to make time to take care of ourselves so we can take care of our children for years to come.
Since starting this idea this weekend, I have found that there are many things that I can do to incorporate exercise into my day, and it doesn't always have to be while your child is asleep. It is good for them to see you taking care of yourself and setting a good example for them. Here are a few activities that have worked for me. Those who have newborns or infants can allow the child to have tummy time or to swing/bounce, etc while mom is working out and so she can still keep an eye on them. Having dad watch them is also an option too :)
Zumba--I started this by taking a class at a local gym for $5 a session. On days I can't go, I remember the routine and do it myself at home while my daughter dances around with me and tries to replicate the moves :) You can also go to sites like http://www.youtube.com/ to find simple examples and tutorials.
Dancing--Put on some of your favorite tunes and just sing and dance your heart out. Chances are your child will love it and join in. They don't have to be So You Think You Can Dance perfect. Children love interacting with their parents and just being silly. No matter what you look like when you dance, you are a rock star to your child!
Running/Walking--This can be done indoors or outdoors. On outdoor days, I put my daughter in her stroller and we go. I like to switch things up and take her to different places every time we walk. Something you could also do is a nature walk with your child especially during this time of the year. Have them look for different colored leaves, pine cones, acorns, flower petals, etc..When I do this indoors, I use our treadmill. My daughter has a bunch of toys to play with while I run and she knows the rules about staying away from the machine when it is on. There are even "games" on the Wii Fit discs where you can run and track your best time.
Wii--We LOVE our Wii! We have Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus. Both have great activities that you can do quickly in as short or as long of a time span as you want. The idea is to just get your heart rate up. The activities range from bike riding, running, boxing, step aerobics, to yoga and strength training as well as balance exercises. Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum is a great one too!
Work out DVD's--Some of my favorites are the Biggest Loser ones, Windsor Pilates, Carmen Electra Strip aerobics, Hip Hop Abs with Shaun T, and Tae Bo with Billy Blanks. These can be worked into your schedule throughout the day and are great for rainy days.
YOUtube and Exercise TV*--Same concept as above, but you can pick the cardio and strength exercises. Some on exercise TV do have a fee associated with them though.
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