Hello fellow parents!
With the summer sun fading and the school bell ringing, our little ones are back to hitting the books, and for many of us, it’s time to hit the gym.
As a gym owner and a parent, I understand how challenging it can be to carve out time for personal health and fitness amidst the whirlwind of parenting. That said, it’s crucial for us to stay active, not just for ourselves but also to set a positive example for our children. Here are my top three tips for parents to reclaim their fitness post-back-to-school:
Schedule It, Like It’s a Parent-Teacher Meeting
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- Start by setting a specific time for your workout. Whether it’s early morning, during your lunch break, or after dropping the kids at school, find a time slot that works best for you and stick to it. Treat this like any other important appointment – pencil it in and make it non-negotiable. I often encourage activate members to set their intentions on sunday, signing into their non-negotiable group sessions on sunday every week. (One to One clients already have their schedules set like clockwork which is why it can be so effective)
Incorporate Fitness into Family Time
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- Weekends and evenings can be family fitness times. Think about activities that the whole family can enjoy, like hiking, bike riding, or even a simple walk around the national park. Not only will this benefit your health, but it will also instill the importance of physical activity in your children from a young age. (Sunday mornings now have parkrun for kiddos run in the house & gardens, get your little ones out for a run and show them the benefits of exercise weekly)
Find a Workout Buddy or Join a Class
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- Accountability can be the key to maintaining a consistent routine. Pairing up with a friend or joining a group can provide the motivation you need on days when it’s tough to get moving. Plus, it adds a social element to your fitness journey which can make the experience even more enjoyable. (It’s an absolute cornerstone of activate and was written into our values from day dot when we opened….Our motto is: “Train Hard, Hav Fun, Belong”)
Remember, as parents, our well-being directly affects our family’s happiness and health. With the kids back in school, now is the perfect opportunity to focus a bit more on ourselves. By prioritizing our health and integrating fitness into our daily routines, we set the stage for a healthier and happier family life.
Stay active, and here’s to a fit and fun school year! 🏋️♀️📚🚴♂️