This Week
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If you’re anything like us, trying to maintain a diligent workout routine is a bit of a challenge. Never mind the rigors of Bikram yoga, an intense spin class or a 5k run, our biggest hurdle is simply finding the time to exercise. With a nest that needs fluffing, a husband who needs loving, and youngsters who need well … all of your waking attention, it’s often difficult to muster the time and energy necessary for a sweat-inducing workout. (Case in point: I’m writing this at 11:14 pm, because that’s when my schedule allows. Unfortunately, it’s not the best time to head outside for a jog.) Nevertheless, we know our health is vitally important, not only to us, but to the health of our family. After all, as the saying goes: “Happy wife, happy life.” Or a less poetic version: “If Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.”
So to help you solve the how-to-get-in-shape-despite-my-busy-life dilemma, we chatted with Lisa Druxman, an expert in pre/postnatal fitness and founder of the mommy-and-me fitness franchise, Stroller Strides. A published author, certified fitness instructor and personal trainer, Lisa is a wife and mother of two who is encouraging other moms to take “me” time. It’s her belief that “fitness will help energize and invigorate women for motherhood.” We couldn’t agree more.
To overcome the challenge of fitting fitness into your day, heed Lisa’s advice. “Fitness does not have to be a traditional hour workout in a gym. Fit it in anywhere–on the playroom floor with baby, lunges in the kitchen, squats while brushing teeth.” And of course, be inspired by Stroller Strides and head outside for a workout with your kiddos. When it comes to healthy eats, Lisa emphasizes preparation. The toned mama suggests having bagged veggies, pre-cooked chicken breast, washed lettuce and more on hand. “Make double batches of healthy meals and freeze half so you are always ready,” she added. “The key to healthy eating is to have lots of healthy choices readily at hand.”
She makes it sound so easy, we know, but it starts with baby steps: some crunches here, 20 lunges there, a game of tag while outside with your kids. Get creative, get inspired, try a Stroller Strides class or simply gather a couple moms and tote your tots together–you’ll get fit, gab with friends and get your kiddo some fresh air … even we can make time for that!
photos courtesy of Lisa Druxman
These are great reminders about working exercise into our daily life. I often forget that, and figure if I can’t make it to the gym or for a run, I’m out of luck.
I’m getting ready to have my second child, and need to remember this!!
Thanks!
Stroller Strides is such an amazing program! Thanks so much for this article! It is the ONLY way I consistently workout EVERY day. By having a set time and a group of people waiting for me to show up I have no excuse not to make it to a workout- I’ve even left a sick baby home with my husband & gone on my own! I don’t know what I’d do without Stroller Strides!!
Lisa is such an inspiration- I wish I lived in San Diego so I could take her classes!
I wish we had a strollerstrides group when my kids where younger! I’m headed to the gym right now! My children are getting old
My 4 year old is a little too heavy to push in the double stroller while running. Another way is to find a gym with free childcare. We joined our local YMCA and my kids love the childcare area and it gives us a break when it’s raining outside and we can’t take a walk.
I like the idea of fitting it in when you can! I have done plenty of lunges around the house myself!
I love Stroller Strides- and my kiddos love it too! It totally saved my sanity and got me back in shape after my second child. There are so many reasons as a new mom not to work out and Stroller Strides makes them disappear (what do I do about daycare, everyone at the gym is already skinny, just starting out and don’t want to look silly, etc.). Also love the tips to squeeze exercise in where ever! Thanks for the article!
Thanks for your comments all! We’re thrilled to hear you’ve either had success with Stroller Strides or you’re making an effort to fit exercise in whenever you can! If you have any other great tips on healthy living amidst the chaos of a full/busy life, we’d love to hear em!