Twenty minutes a day, five or six days a week—those are my fitness benchmarks. It’s as straightforward as that.
In those 20 minutes, I can jog or walk nearly two miles or roll out my yoga mat for the basic routine I learned years ago before motherhood became my full-time job. Nothing I do is overly taxing. My primary aim is to break a sweat and enjoy the surge of endorphins that follow. These days, I’m not exercising to achieve a toned physique or to fit into smaller clothing sizes. While that was once part of my motivation, my focus has shifted.
I work out so I can keep pace with my kids as they dash down the street. I exercise because it’s essential for me to be able to bend down and pick up their toys without risking back pain. I also make sure to incorporate a few pelvic floor exercises into my routine, as two pregnancies have taught me the importance of taking care of my body—especially to avoid those awkward moments when I sneeze or laugh.
With only one body to navigate through life, I have countless adventures I want to embark on. If I neglect my health now, I know that my body will start to deteriorate at an alarming rate. I need to be fit enough to eventually chase my grandkids around the block too.
I’ve maintained this exercise routine consistently for the last decade. When my children were infants, I’d strap them into a baby carrier and briskly walk around the neighborhood. I’d sneak in yoga during their nap times, often pausing mid-session to nurse or soothe them back to sleep (they were light sleepers!).
Sometimes, those 20 minutes stretch to half an hour or more. But if I set my goal at 30 minutes, I might shy away from exercising altogether. There’s something about keeping it to a 20-minute window that feels manageable. I know it sounds illogical, but that mental trick works for me.
Exercise should be tailored to fit your lifestyle. It must be something you enjoy rather than an additional burden. Every year, I watch individuals set ambitious fitness resolutions—“Today’s the day I join a gym and go every day!” or “I just started this intense workout program, and I feel fantastic!” But often, those grand plans come with hefty price tags and are unlikely to be sustainable in the long run.
As a busy mom working from home, committing to a gym or regular classes isn’t feasible for me. Moreover, as an introvert, I prefer exercising alone. For me, working out is not just about physical fitness; it’s my time to unwind, listen to music, or simply enjoy the quiet. Exercise aids in processing my thoughts and alleviating stress—it’s restorative and keeps me grounded.
I firmly believe that everyone should engage in some form of physical movement each day, in a way that suits them. As parents, we owe it to our children to prioritize our health, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day. It doesn’t need to be elaborate or time-consuming, but it must be enjoyable and fit seamlessly into your routine. If it doesn’t, you’re less likely to stick with it.
For more information on home insemination options, check out our post on the at-home insemination kit. Additionally, if you’re struggling with performance anxiety, this article offers some practical solutions. For those expecting or planning a family, March of Dimes is an excellent resource for guidance throughout your pregnancy journey.
In summary, exercising regularly doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By setting low, achievable goals and creating a routine that fits your lifestyle, you can maintain your physical health while enjoying the process.