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Moms On The Move!
by Christie Wilkerson, B.S., Exercise Science

Are you a new mom or a veteran mom who used to be active (before children) but have since abandoned the idea of starting up some form of regular exercise? Maybe you want to begin working out again but feel like you have been out of the loop for so long that you don't know where to start. There is a lot of truth in the saying that half the battle is simply getting started.

If you're telling yourself it is not possible then stop the negative thoughts and begin thinking of how much good it will do you (and your family) to become more active. If you want to motivate yourself to be truly successful, you have to actively create your success. Regular exercise is going to benefit you in the following ways:

Increased energy (something all moms need in order to keep up with their kids).
Decreased body weight.
Increased lean body mass.
Cardiorespiratory endurance.
An improved ability to deal with stressful situations.
Peace of mind.
Time to focus on you and only you.

If you're working full time outside of the house you're probably working full time inside the house as well, trying to hold it all together. There's preparing meals, keeping the house clean, helping the kids with homework and school projects, and shuffling everyone to their daily events (maybe it is soccer practice, a piano lesson, or a friend's house). Even with the help of a spouse you are probably still feeling overwhelmed and left wondering when is there going to be time for me? The time is now!

Maybe for you its more realistic to begin working out at home. Or maybe you'll have more success becoming a member of a local gym. The choice is yours. Whichever you choose, it's easier than you think. Here's how to get started.

Working out at home:

This is a good way to get the ball rolling. The important part is putting aside the 101 other reasons around the house not to get your workout done. Working out at home has many benefits. If you workout in the morning, before the rest of the house awakens you'll be more energized for the rest of the day knowing you've done something good for yourself.

Or, maybe working out at night after everyone else is asleep is a good way for you to wind down your day. Whatever your fancy, with a minimal investment you can have everything you need for a great workout that can be varied each and every day. Although some cardiovascular equipment can be a little more pricey, it is a one time cost that will pay for itself quickly. However, it is not necessary to purchase an expensive piece of cardiovascular equipment. There are several aerobic videoson the market that will lead you in the same heart pumping workout as walking on a treadmill or riding on a bike. Other items which can supplement your workouts, such as hand weights, resistance bands, exercise balls are more inexpensive and have many uses.

Also we must not forget the great outdoors. Outside the door we have all the space we need to workout, and what kid doesn't like to play outside! Include your kids in your activity and encourage and educate them about how important exercise is. Research indicates that people who are active when they are young are more likely to stay active throughout their lifetime. Kids don't realize that they are exercising because they are having so much fun. This is a great way for you to get exercise and spend some time with your kids.

The options are endless when it comes to how you want to incorporate exercise in your daily routine. Remember that it is equally important for you to take just as good care of yourself as you do your family. So make the commitment to yourself this Mother's Day to become more physically active. Ask for your family's support in your mission for not only will you benefit, but they will too!