Last Updated on January 28, 2023 by Lori Geurin
Being a single parent is hard work, to say the least. When all the responsibility falls on your shoulders, it can be tough to keep up or find the energy to do anything other than the required daily tasks. It’s sometimes easy for depression and anxiety to set in, especially after stress rears its ugly head, and breaking that cycle can be difficult.
One of the best ways to battle those feelings–and to help yourself feel better physically and mentally–is by working out. Having a daily workout not only keeps your body healthy, but it also helps clear the fog by providing much-needed oxygen to your brain’s cells. Getting your heart rate up also provides a rush of hormones that can boost your mood, as does being outside in the sunshine. All in all, exercise is a wonderful respite for single parents because it covers many different areas.
But before we get into the workout tips I wanted to share this offer from Find Your Trainer (FYT) for Two Weeks of Personal Training for Free! Your certified trainer personalizes each workout for your goals, body, lifestyle, location, and equipment. Best of all, you can work out anywhere you want – your home, outside, or the gym.
It can be hard to find the time to fit in a workout, but there are some simple ways you can turn things around and create a routine that works for you. Here are a few tips on getting started.
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Tips For Working Out For Single Parents
1. Get the kids involved.
One easy way to make exercise a part of your daily routine is by getting the kids involved. Not only will this allow you to spend quality time with them, but you’ll be teaching them good habits that can stay with them for a lifetime.
When the weather is nice, head to the park for a game of kickball. Or simply get out in the backyard for some tag.
2. Look for the fun.
Let’s face it: exercise isn’t always a fun pastime, especially when you’re tired after a long day. It’s far too easy to put off a workout until you feel up to it, but if you make it fun, it will be something to look forward to and not something to dread.
Think of some things you enjoy doing–swimming, playing a sport–and integrate them into your workout routine. Knowing it’s something you can have fun with may help you dig deep for that little bit of extra energy required.
3. Get the dog involved.
Pets seem to have boundless energy, especially dogs, so allowing your pup to be a part of your exercise routine will help you stay motivated. Take him for a long walk after dinner, or head to a local park and hike the trails.
Sometimes, knowing that you’re getting a second task done–in this case, giving your dog the chance to get out and exercise–at the same time as the first task will help give you the momentum you need.
Check out this article on how to get fit with your pup.
4. Eat right.
Eating well-balanced meals goes hand-in-hand with daily exercise, in part because it will give you the fuel you need to keep up your energy.
Start the day off with fruit, whole grains, and protein for breakfast. Try a grilled chicken salad for lunch. And have a dinner that’s loaded with veggies with a side of fish or chicken. Be sure to keep healthy snacks handy during the day, such as granola bars or dried fruit, so you won’t fall victim to the 3 o’clock slump.
Related: Top 20 Best Healthy Snacks
5. Use your time wisely.
If you work in an office, you may be able to use your lunch break to go for a brisk walk around the block a few times, or run up and down the stairs. When you clean your home, you can use vacuuming to your advantage by doing it in long, even strokes in every room to work your arm, calf, and abdominal muscles.
Using your time wisely during everyday tasks will help you knock out your daily workout and save you time at the end of the day when you’re most likely to be tired.
For a list of easy exercises you can do almost anywhere, read on here.
Summary – Working Out When You’re A Single Parent
Daily exercise is important for more than just your physical and mental health; it can also help you feel better in general and help you cope with stress in a more healthy way. Get the family involved for even more benefits.
What ideas can you think of to add to this list?
Leave your comments below in the comment section. I love hearing from you!
If you enjoyed these tips for working out for single parents, you’ll want to check out:
- Living Alone And Poor Nutrition: What You Need To Know
- Intermittent Fasting: The Ultimate Quick Guide
- A Beginner’s Guide To Healthy Meal Prep
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I couldn’t imagine being a single parent. I’m a sahm where my husband works alot so getting out to the gym can be so hard with a toddler.
Hi Jalisa, I hear you! Our kids are older now, but I remember trying to get them all out to go to the gym when they were little and it was a challenge. It’s such a great way to take care of yourself though if you’re able.
These are such excellent tips! I have such a hard time finding the time to work out and really need to work on this!
Thank you, Brianne! Best wishes for the New Year!