Top 3 Home Workouts For Mums
Having the motivation to get fit is one thing, but if you’re a mum you’ll know that making the time to follow through on those good intentions is another matter altogether. Childcare, chores and work all take their toll, and it can often feel as if you are putting on a constant juggling act as you try to keep everyone happy. Me-time can be a pipe-dream, especially for those with pre-schoolers, and if you do get some precious hours to yourself, then it’s usually tempting to spend them relaxing, rather than getting fit.
But being stuck in an endless cycle of working, running around after other people and then slobbing out can actually leave you feeling more tired and sluggish. It’s also bad for your physical and mental health, as you don’t get a chance to be active, self-focused and relaxed. Breaking a sweat on a regular basis can help keep your body fit and strong, meaning you’ll find the daily demands of life and children less arduous.
If your sportswear is gathering dust, perhaps it’s time you dug it out and started on a new year fitness programme. It doesn’t have to be difficult and you don’t have to be a “supermum” like Nell McAndrew to keep in tip top shape and look after your children. Here are our top three picks for exercise that mums can do easily at home.
Kettlebells
Kettlebells are kettle-shaped weights with a handle, and are great way to combine resistance training with a good cardio workout. There are plenty of classes around, but you can also have a go from home. Buy a good DVD or instruction book, and choose lighter weights to start with. They can look scary, but they’re easier to use than they look. Pick them up, swing them around (but watch out for the kids!) and have fun.
Vibration Training
Vibration training is a very time-efficient way to tone-up and build fitness which is already used by top athletes. You’ll need the equipment, like the Power Plate, which can easily be stored at home, and the power vibrations will help you build muscle and flexibility even if you only have a few minutes to spare.
Xbox Kinect/Wii Fit
That games console doesn’t have to just be for the kids to play on. The Nintendo Wii can be used with the Wii Fit to access a huge range of workout programmes and games, and will help you monitor your progress as you go along. The Xbox Kinect also has a whole load of fitness games, and because your whole body acts as a controller it’s ideal for aerobics and boxing exercises. The good thing about using a Wii or Kinect to get fit is that you can choose just about any sport you like and play it from the comfort of your living room. Tennis? Skiing? Dance? Become an expert in one, or challenge yourself (and your kids!) in every conceivable sport.