Creative Ways To Exercise With Young Kids

Hi Beauties!

I recently recorded a podcast with one of my favorite blogs, Coffee + Crumbs, and one of the topics we discussed was how my workout routine has changed since having my second child. I shared how my perspective has changed and also got practical about creative ways to exercise with young kids at home.

Since How To Exercise With A Baby is one of my most popular posts on Pinterest I figured I’d share a little update on how I’m exercising with 2 young kids at home.

Did you notice that the title says CREATIVE ways to exercise with small kids?

Yep, that pretty much sums it up.

Exercising with small kids around is far from easy. It takes creativity to find time, space, and energy to stay in shape during this busy season of life.

Since having my second baby, my workouts have definitely decreased, but I’m not using that as an excuse to throw in the towel altogether. And neither should you!

Here are a few creative ways I’ve been sneaking in my workouts these days…

Creative Ways To Exercise With Young Kids

• Bite-sized workouts: It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of 10-minute workouts (I have a whole challenge built around the method). Now more than ever, bite-sized workouts help me stay in shape without getting discouraged. 10 minutes here, 10 minutes there…they add up!

• Break it up: Similarly, if I have a 30-minute workout to complete I often break it up into two 15-minute segments because that’s about the maximum amount of time I can find without someone needing me.

• Make use of bath time: I love bath time! While the baby takes his morning nap, the 3-year-old will play in the bath while I do an online workout on the bathroom floor. Bonus: the bathroom counter makes a perfect barre for barre workouts!

• Family walks: Loading up the stroller with snacks, toys, and water can be a great way to get outside, get exercise, and connect with your spouse at the end of a long day.

• Wake up early: When possible, set your alarm for 30 minutes earlier and sneak a workout in before the little ones wake up and take over.

• Toy rotation system: I implemented a toy rotation system at the beginning of the year and it is one of the BEST things I’ve ever done! If I’m desperate for a workout I’ll bring out a new (old) bin of toys so I can have a few minutes to myself. The new (old) bin of toys inspires my toddler to play independently for an extended period of time so that I can do planks without a 29 lb. human on my back. It’s the best!

• Go outside: Bring your mat outside and do Pilates, squats, lunges, etc. while the kids play in the yard. You could even set up a pack’n’play like this if you have babies in your house.

All in all, the most important thing is to give up the “all or nothing” mentality and give yourself grace. 

Having young kids in the house is a season of life; a short season. So do the best you can, celebrate small victories, and remember that something is always better than nothing.

Do you have additional tips to add to this list? Post them in the comments! 🙂

xo,

PS – Looking for quick & effective workouts you can do from home? Check out The Sisterhood! It’s the perfect online resource for busy moms. 🙂 Read our manifesto to seek if it’s a good fit for you.