8 easy ways for busy mums to keep fit

With four kids under six years I often felt like I didn’t have the energy or inclination to lift a finger, let alone exercise. My second child survived on minimal sleep so I was forced to do the same. Although I was diagnosed with post-natal depression, I knew that what I was really suffering from was post-natal exhaustion. I was not keen on taking ‘tablets’ so threw myself into a fitness regime. Being physically fit could also help my mental health. Over the years these simple exercises have developed into sustainable, achievable and affordable exercise routines that I continue to practice daily. In addition, these workouts leave a light footprint on our planet… Walk (It) Out Babies love the distraction and attention of new faces. Whenever my partner returned from work or, when a grandparent or neighbour popped in, the kids would squeal with delight. I would seize these ‘moments’ – when visitors entered, I’d exit (after they agreed to babysit of course!) I would complete a brisk walk around the block before the kids even realised I had ‘escaped’. These 10-15 minute ‘recharge routines’ gave me a few moments to breathe, gain strength and provide some clarity. Sunshine on my face usually helped to lift the fog. These few minutes a day can easily be used to regain fitness. Explore opportunities to increase training intensity and set yourself little challenges – for example, jogging to one light pole… walking to the next, jogging between two light poles, walking between two light poles. Kitchen Fitness How many hours do you spend daily preparing meals in the kitchen? How many cups of tea or coffee do you have a day? If you add it all up, your time spent waiting for the kettle to boil could end up being a whole workout. Try doing a set of squats or lunges, practice push ups on the kitchen bench or use the time for a 3 minute pelvic floor routine. Playground Fitness Playgrounds are the best gymnasiums on the planet. They can be found everywhere, are open 24 hours and membership is free. Basic functional exercises are the best… step ups, push ups, pull ups and of course, monkey bars! Dress for action. Instead of sitting on a park bench watching your kids and snacking on treats, play chasey with them up and down the slides. Keep up with your kids and be a great role model. Cleaning Fitness Cleaning is one of those everyday chores that can be turned into a fun, challenging exercise routine by using this easy visualisation technique. Imagine that someone you want to impress is arriving at your home in 45 minutes. Write out your ‘to do’...

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