THE PULSE

Hectic schedules, a regular lack of sleep and occasional meltdowns (sometimes theirs, sometimes yours) are common occurrences when you’re a parent. So… when are you supposed to work out? Once you’re at In-Shape, our Kid Zone can keep your kids entertained, but what about on the days you just know you won’t have time for a trip to the club?

We know it can be tough, so we asked three In-Shape parents to share their tips on how to find time to work out—even when it feels too busy for a full workout at the club.

Sandra L: Mom & In-Shape’s Sr. Marketing Director

Tip: Make Playtime Exercise Time

“My active 6-year-old loves to go to the park and I happily join him. I turn his playtime into my exercise time. Walk or bike to the park together? Let’s go. Play lava monster on the play structure? You got it. Play freeze tag with friends we meet? Tag, you’re it!

I want my child to understand the importance of being outside, being active, and having fun. And the best way is to show him. Trust me, an hour or two at the park playing with your child will give you an excellent workout.“

Josh G: Dad & In-Shape’s Manager of Leadership & Development

Tip: Don’t Feel Guilty

“Easier said than done, that’s for sure. Being a household with two full-time working parents can be hard to navigate. This is something that my wife and I talk about often: that parent guilt. Hitting the gym, enjoying your coffee in the morning, taking time for self-care… these things are important so we don’t get burnt out. Plus, they let us set a healthy example for our kids. Each week my wife and I sort out our pick-up and drop-off schedule for the kids, then we figure out what we’re eating for the week, and lastly we figure out how to fit in our own workout routine.

Some weeks we work out separately while the other person watches the kids, sometimes we bring them to the Kid Zone, sometimes I work out late at night when the family has gone to bed, and sometimes we just get outside or go to the park as a family.”

Keri H: Mom & In-Shape’s Sr. Manager of Group Fitness Operations

Tip: Do what you can

“I don’t have time to spend an hour running like I did pre-kids, but I do have 15-20 minutes and have found a quick route from my home that I can accomplish between school drop-off and my first meeting of the day.

I also utilize my kids for working out. We play sports in the backyard like basketball, soccer and badminton, have races, and create obstacle courses. If the weather is cold or windy, a good old dance party in the house will get your heart rate up and make you sweat.

If all else fails, walking every aisle of Walmart or the grocery store solo allows me to get my steps in and I enjoy singing along to the music.”