2 of 10

Write now Article Tools

Exercise! Working full time, then spending time with the kids, making dinner, doing laundry, helping with homework, and all the little millions of things that need to be done, it is any wonder most single moms (or dads) have time to think, let alone exercise. There are ways, it just takes creative thinking and timing.

Weekends, yes, they are always full of all the things you can't and don't get done during the week. You have to actually set aside the time, but it will benefit both you and your kids. Set a couple hours aside during the weekend, and go to the park. Ride bikes there or walk if it is within walking distance. Let the kids play on the playground, walk the perimeter of the play area. Figure out how many times around equal a mile or two, and walk it, jog it, or power walk it. Play on the swings, it takes muscles in your arms and legs to pump the swing to a respectable height. Climb up the ladder and go down the slide, go across the monkey bars. Playing with your kids at the park is exercise too. It also allows you to spend quality time with them.

Find a good workout tape or DVD. There are several good ones out there for Tai Chi and Pilates. Set a schedule, earlier in the morning or after the kids go to bed and you have things ready for the morning. Set aside a half hour to an hour each day or even every other day to yourself. Unless it's an emergency, that load of laundry can wait another day. Take that time to yourself. You will feel better for it and look good too.

Involve your kids in your exercise program. This is going to sound hilarious, but my 6 year old daughter loves to do Pilates. She loves to watch the video and try to do the exercises. She is actually better at it than me, lol. There was an article not long ago that stated that our kids aren't getting enough exercise and that is leading to obesity in kids as young as six. Set up an exercise routine for all of you to follow. They might grumble about it at first, but eventually, they might surprise you and be pushing you to do the exercises every day.

The trick is setting up a schedule and sticking to it. If exercising is important to you, then you can and will find the time to do it. Figure out what type of exercise is your style and then commit yourself to that set time every day or other day.

Learn more about this author, Silkbutterfli.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Single parents: Tips for finding time to exercise?
We want to hear your view. Write now!