4 of 10

Write now Article Tools

You'd assume single parents get plenty of exercise between shuffling the kids from one event to the next, cleaning the house, working full time, and dealing with a barrage of other activities. The reality however, can be the furthest from the truth. The key, is to find ways to fit exercise into your daily routine.

One way to fit in exercise, is to involve your children. Kids are dying to get outside and play baseball, run and jump, and burn off all that extra energy they've accrued throughout the day. If you feel guilty hiring a sitter while you head to the gym, take the kids to the park and throw around a ball. Play tag. Fly a kite. Anything to get you outside and moving will give you a workout. Make a ritual of taking a walk around the block every night before bath time. You'll bond with your children and teach them importance of staying in shape and working out.

If you have a toddler, get involved in a mommy and me class, or get a group of single parents together for an evening stroll. With older kids, let them wander ahead and have an opportunity to chat with a girlfriend while walking in the park. If you have an opportunity to sneak away while the kids are off to school, or at their father's (of mother's) plan a hike with a friend, or head to the Y for a yoga class. Joining a class, or making time for a daily walk before work with a neighbor is not only good for your body, but it gives you some much needed adult time.

Fitting in mini workouts throughout the day is also a good way to burn extra calories. Taking the stairs at work, parking in the last spot at the grocery store, or actually walking to a co-workers desk at work instead of sending an email adds up. Wear a pedometer and try to up your steps everyday until you reach 10,000. Instead of grumbling when your kids leave toys lying around think of it as an opportunity to get a few squats in. Leave dumbbells by the TV and force yourself to do a few reps between each commercial break.

Thinking of exercise as an hour long session is daunting and unrealistic. However, taking three ten minute walks and working in a few squats while you're doing dishes isn't as overwhelming. Take advantage of little things you can do throughout the day to get a little cardio or weight training in and you will be shocked to see the pounds start to melt away. Making working out a habit is good for you, ups your self esteem, and teaches your children how important daily physical exercise really is.

Learn more about this author, Molly Carter.
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!