In my old life, I was a work out maven. Mostly when I was single. I worked out five days a week, two hours a day. I loved it. Sure, it was probably keeping me single but I was in shape! I looked good, y’all! Fast forward to my newlywed days. I used to get up at 6am and head out to the gym. I’d work out for a hour and then come back home and get showered and get to work. I’d do this all week and sometimes even on Saturday. Knowing this, imagine how much I’m kicking myself now. I haven’t seen the inside of a gym in at least a year, I haven’t worked out at home in months and I’m always too exhausted or busy to get that workout in.
Here’s the thing. I do still try every now and then to make it happen. I was recently talking to a friend about this. We talked about how hard it can be to exercise when you’re at home with kids. She has three children, I have two. When I decide to work out my kids think it’s some sort of game. As soon and I start moving, they jump in to do what I’m doing. I love that part of it. I like them seeing me taking care of myself. I want that to be a normal part of our life. I’d love for exercise to be the norm in their eyes. So having them emulate what I do is like, “yes! we’re doing this!” The problem is they are 2 and almost 5 so their attention spans aren’t the greatest. They soon get bored with my half hour routine. When they get bored they get silly.
As I lie down to do my ab work, my daughter runs over and screams, “horsey, neigh!” She then tries to giddy up on my stomach. Fun. Also, while I’m on the floor, our dog runs up to my face to give me kisses. Are you getting this picture? It’s pretty much a comedy sketch. When it’s time to lift weights, my son wants in on that part. When I tell him no, he tries to convince me that he’s a big boy and shows me his “super strong muscles”. Of course, all I see is him or his sister getting cracked with a weight. No bueno. Not happening kid. My friend told me she has similar issues with her babies. We both wondered, who are these moms who talk about working out with their small children. We wanted to know their secret. With us, it’s a comedy routine fit for a sitcom.
How about you? Does working out, work out with you and the kids? Tips, secrets? Share!
80 Comments on When Working Out Doesn’t Work Out
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I am interesting in knowing this too. I only have one and she is 21-months. I am always so tired at the end of the day that working out is the farthest thing from my mind. I know folks say “take care of you.” My idea of that is getting some much needed rest.
I now do a quick 2-mile run on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at work (we have a gym in the building) and then we do a 3-mile walk on Saturday as a family. But that’s all I can get and I am thankful to even have that.
I don’t have any kids yet but I can only imagine the struggle when doing simple things like working out around the house!
Betsy Mitchell recently posted…Caramel Macchiato Frozen Coffee Recipe
It really is harder to fit in those work outs when you become a mom. When my son was small my mother would take him for a couple of times a week so I could work out and once he got older and into literally everything that stopped! And now that he’s 4, as nervous as I am about M-F Pre-K I am also excited cause as soon as I drop him off at school I am hitting the gym LOL
LOL!! It sounds like a comdedy skit and I see your frustration. You know I have three kids and even when I had two, I had to get it in. For me, I worked out when my kids were in bed. I am just a night time exerciser. I kiss my kids goodnight and off to the workout room or living room I go. On the occasion they do see me working, they also join in but when they get silly… I keep on going. My daughter (now 6) makes it through a full routine with me. But either, get up before they wake up, do it during their nap or when they go to bed. But it can be done.
Bernetta recently posted…Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Opens 08/08/14 {Review} #TMNTMovie
Lets just say I do not work out that much well ok never lol.Hubs likes to go jogging and my older 2 like to join in with him.
Kay Adeola recently posted…Music Monday!
I have to get up and go with the workout or it wont get done. I have to battle health problems on top of it so it can be even more of a chore if I sit too long and dont get to it.
Everyday Living with Chrys recently posted…Why I Won’t Continue with Jewelry In Candles
Early in the morning. I’ve started waking at a the Gid awful hour of 430 IN THE MORNING to get it in!
My kids are older but I feel uncomfortable working out in front of them – or anyone else. So, this summer has been a little trickier to get my workouts in without an audience. I try to do them in the mornings before the kids get up when I can.
Erica recently posted…Auntie Anne’s & Alex’s Lemonade Stand’s Mighty Fight Against Childhood Cancer
I hate working out in front of my kids and they are still little. My daughter sometimes joins in… and that makes it better!
Carly from The Puzzled Palate recently posted…The Puzzled Palate’s Milestone Giveaway {Worth $200+}
My kids are younger so I am ok working out in front of them. In fact they like to join in.
mellisa recently posted…Are you Dangerous With your Smartphone? #AbsoluteUncovered
I tend to get up before work to work out. I hate it, but then it’s done for the day and I feel better about it!
Tracey recently posted…Sarah from Camp Girl in The Real World
I’ve occasionally tried running with my son, but it doesn’t always go so well (or I have to cut the run short because that is TOUGH!) I work out during my lunch hour now, and my husband and I take turns working out on the weekends.
Jaime recently posted…Review: Firmoo eyeglasses
Have you tried working out once the kids go to bed. I know it can be late and we all have better things to do with that time(like clean that days mess the kids made) or simply rest since it’s been a long draining day. But maybe once the kids go down you can do a quick 25 minute workout alone or with your husband. I know it’s 100% easier said then done but sometimes a quick 25 minutes a few days a week is all we need to restart or maintain our insanity. Or Switch it and try the workout in the morning Prior to kids getting up a few days a week.
It’s tough fitting in working out with family, job and home. I wish there were more hours in the day to get things done!
Debra recently posted…#Palmolive25Ways – Dish Soap Paint Kids Craft {#Cbias}
Working out is tough. Especially when my favorite shows are on! Ha. Yep… I am that person!
Deidre recently posted…Two Year Anniversary
I definitely have to work out either while my daughter is at school, before school or after she goes to bed. She is the same “oohh horsey” when it comes to that.
Melissa @ This Girl’s Life Blog recently posted…Heading back to school with Del Monte! #DelMonteBTS
Working out with kids really can be difficult. The best thing I have found is to find ways to do it with them if at all possible.
Melissa recently posted…Go Sleeveless and Win a Trip to NYC Fashion Week!
I am in the same boat, I want to get in shape so badly but my kiddos don’t think its that important lol
Katrina recently posted…A Day at the Boston Children’s Museum
I remember those days very well. It has been many, many years… but I do remember. Things do get better. Hold onto that thought.
Terry recently posted…Gravity Defyer Womens Scossa XT Athletic Shoes Helping With Plantar Fasciitis and Metatarsal Problems
Working out at home does NOT work for me… I have to have Red strapped into a jogger, or be at the gym by myself. And doing anything at home doesn’t motivate me.
Lindsey @ Redhead Baby Mama recently posted…It’s Shark Week: Crafts, Recipes and Games Roundup
Hahaha!! I don’t have any kids but when I do some stretches or yoga at home my dog will not leave me alone! I gave up on working out at home because it just never happens. Maybe have them help “coach you” along the way? Have them be involved without them working out themselves 🙂
Lindsay recently posted…Creamy Avocado Pasta
Every time I try to do yoga at home, my dog starts licking my face and my cats climb all over me. Also no bueno!
As adorable as it sounds, I can see it being a bit frustrating when you want to work out! I agree with Josh about the morning/nighttime workout. If you work out late at night, you may feel tired enough to get a good rest and if you choose to do it in the morning, it may energize you!
I totally need to get back into working out BIG TIME. I used to be so good at it, then life got in the way and a full time job in Corporate America. You totally have me ready to make it work. Get back to the gym and no more excuses. Great post!!
Jamie @ Makeuplifelove recently posted…Beauty Tips for Achieving a #AllDayLook with Neutrogena…
The little girl I nanny does the exact same thing when I try to work out! It can be such a challenge to work out with kids.
Jenna @ A Savory Feast recently posted…Cast Iron Grill Skillet — My Current Obsession!
I like both early and late exercising. Pretty much get it in when I can.
I keep telling myself that when all my kids are in school, THAT is when it will be my time to get back to working out regularly. I just canNOT figure out the logistics with little kids at home! Sigh. Someday…
Kayla recently posted…Warm Fuzzies
I have to find different ways to work out now with kids. We have a treadmill and I will do some workout DVD’s.
Janell Poulette recently posted…Save on TONI&GUY® Products at Select Walgreens
I struggle to get in a good burn too. I don’t have children, but spread myself thin. I try walking with neighbors after dinner.
Jessica (Savory Experiments) recently posted…The Importance of Good Knives and an Ergo Chef Crimson G10 Knife Set Giveaway
Mm hmm, I can relate. I turn on the treadmill and my six year old is begging to get on with me. I have to get up way before he does, or the workout isn’t going to happen.
Working out has gotten MUCH more difficult with kids. My 4 year old wants to get rid beside me to workout with the people on TV — so close that I can’t really move, and he gets mad when I ask him to give me space.
Kecia recently posted…Funding Rainy Days with Savings from Walgreens Paperless Coupons
My kids are a bit older now so they don’t affect my working out that much. I am the one who stands in my own way half the time. Lol
veronica recently posted…The Casa Vilora Interiors Great Summer Give-Away!
I go in spurts. I get motivated and work out for a few months and then I get lazy. Here’s to getting motivated again!
Emily recently posted…Coconut Water Just For Kids!
It is so hard. I have to exercise when everyone goes to bed which leaves my options limited.
Felicia recently posted…Crazy Putty that Changes Colors
The only kind of working out I can do when my daughter is around is zumba or any kind of dance exercise. And that’s only because she wants to join in.
Carly Anderson recently posted…Gold, Karen Kane Giveaway, and Let it Shine Link Up
I just haven’t had time to exercise. But I hope sometime to get exercising back into my routine.
Beth@FrugalFroggie recently posted…America’s Most Wanted Recipes
I hate to work out. I know I need to, so I’ve started walking.
Anne @MidlifeBlvd recently posted…Samsung Chef Collection at #BlogHer14
I have 6 kids and have been failing with working out for months. I get into a groove then something always comes up. Hoping once school starts up again I can regroup and refocus!
So funny! But I think doing anything for yourself that requires more than 3 or four minutes is difficult when you’re a mom.
Marybeth Hamilton recently posted…Pottery Barn Kids: Halloween Treat Bags + Costumes
My friends and I have started walking 4 miles. It’s working now that my kids are in school. During the summer, forget it. My issues are pretty similar to yours.
Haha! Kids are the funniest when it comes to working out at home. I can picture it now, they just think its all a game. I think walking groups are super fun!
Alyssa recently posted…Dawson, party of three!
Oh my goodness, I can’t even imagine. I used to make it to the gym before I got married too, but my last day was the week after my wedding 😉 good like finding something that works my dear!
Joelle recently posted…On Life. Lately.
I have all this to come. It’s going to be interesting juggling my own stuff and motherhood too.
Jemma @ Celery and Cupcakes recently posted…{Recipe} Roasted Vegetable & Quinoa Salad with a pomegranate & balsamic dressing – vegan
I am really bad about making the kids my excuse. I really should use them as my motivation!
Carly from The Puzzled Palate recently posted…Leading a double life… as a blogger! #TypeACon
Thankfully, my gym has a kids watch, so I can work out for up to 2 hours per day while I know the kids are in good hands.
Theresa recently posted…Hanging With The Animals At Lincoln Park Zoo
I have 5 kids and believe me, I get what you’re going through. If I let my 2.5 year old around me while I work out she’s trying to do lunges underneath my legs or climb on my back like I’m a horse too. It’s cute but frustrating. 🙂 What I’ve done – and maybe a lot of moms wouldn’t agree with my method – is I send my kiddos upstairs. They go to their play room and play. They are not to come downstairs unless there’s an emergency until I’m done. No fighting. If they fight or whatever else they could do (smear toothpaste all over the bathroom) they get consequences. If they don’t want to be upstairs then they have to stay on the couch. They’ve seen me do this for years so they’re pretty used to it. I try to keep the workouts in the 30 minute range for my 2 year old and my baby. I always have a bottle at the ready for my baby; it seems he always decides he’s hungry right when I’m in the middle of a workout. Sometimes it takes 30 minutes for me to get everything ready to workout. Get the kids a snack before I send them upstairs, get my stuff out, get the baby’s stuff ready. I keep thinking to try to workout early morning, but that’s never going to happen!! I need sleep!
Rochelle recently posted…120 Ideas for Back to (Home)School
My gym has childcare, which is awesome. As long as my kids behave in there, I can workout for two hours and know my kids are cared for. Occasionally my workout is interrupted, like if the baby needs a diaper or one of them misbehaves, but so far it’s been wonderful.
Virginia @thatbaldchick recently posted…After The Shooting Death of Michael Brown #PrayforFerguson
I’ve been lucky enough to find a gym with a great daycare. Now I just need to keep my motivation up!
I don’t even have kids yet and I find it increasingly difficult to work out. My biggest problem is that I find it SO hard to wake up early and that’s pretty much the only time I have to get an extra workout in. I’d love to hear how you managed to wake up early regularly
brita recently posted…Mexican Corn on the Cob
This sounds brilliant. I have a boyfriend that does all of the above to me while I’m trying to exercise. To be fair to him, he is trying to help me get fit but it’s not going brilliantly well!
Katie <3
Katie recently posted…Artigiano
Hoping to get back into the groove when school starts. Been too busy this summer!
Christie recently posted…Caramel Apple Smores Recipe
My daughter is a late teen and we have been talking about doing yoga or pilates together. So, hopefully that will pan out soon.
Dawn McAlexander recently posted…10 Things You Need To Know When Serving Jury Duty
I have not had time this summer at all. I can’t wait for school to start back so I can get back to the gym!
Toni recently posted…Join The #KraftFoodsCheeseburger Summer Memories Twitter Party On 8/14! $200 In Prizes!!
This happens to me on the daily and I am not even a mom! I always try to work out and it just never WORKS OUT!
Leanna Ranieri recently posted…S & C Wedding // Maid of Honor Duties
My house is the same way – when I try – I get climbed on. It’s just how it goes, lol.
I would love to get into a fitness routine. My kids are teenagers now i think its time for me 🙂 I just have to find some motivation lol
When my grandkids visit, they workout with me. They love it! And I love setting the good example with them.
When my husband gets home for work, I go for a power walk with my neighbor. Sometimes mommy just needs time to clear her head.
Amy Desrosiers recently posted…Immaculate Baking Company & Easy Harvest Cupcakes #IBBakesWell
My kids are older now so I don’t have to manage my time with them. I still find it necessary to get up early to get a workout in before starting my day.
Lol, working out at home is like that for me at times. I choose to either go to the gym or work out early in the morning (5:00am) before my house wakes. Once they’re up…. all hope is lost.
Cyndi @ MrsWrightWrites recently posted…Building Confidence with American Girl
I can only work out when my son is asleep…if then! It’s usually too early or too late. I gotta find the inspiration!
Krystal recently posted…Party at the Park: Plan a Back to School Pizza Party #FoodMadeSimple #shop
It can definitely be hard to find time to workout. Unfortunately, sometimes I have to skip a day or two.
I used to love going to the gym and working before kids. But since kids I just don’t have the time or energy.
fancygrlnancy (Nancy Partin) recently posted…Little Tikes 4-in-1 Trike Sports Edition Review
Just remember that your working out and making the time to do it will show them how important it is. Plus, you want to be around a long time for them, and vice versa. Hang in there and don’t give up. :]
Mary O’Malley recently posted…College Students Eat Healthy even while on a Budget
At least you’re trying. I don’t even have an excuse… I’m just lazy half the time. I am planning on starting pole fitness so hopefully it is fun enough that I don’t remember I’m working out.
Lissa Cole recently posted…Why I Don’t Consider Myself a Military Wife
Hey, at least you are trying. That is better than some of us 😉
Sarah Beth recently posted…The 40 Bag Challenge Report
It’s a continuous struggle. I too used to work out like it was my job but since having kids I’ve gained weight lost my energy and motivation and can’t seem to snap out of it.
Beth@ Through the Eyes of the Mrs. recently posted…Hughes Mansion Exterior Before
My son does the same thing and will try to pick up the weights to show me how strong he is, so I’ve had to start hiding them when I’m not actively using them. I try to work out after the kids go to bed because it’s also my ‘me’ time and I just can’t concentrate or enjoy it while they need me. It’s hard though.
Rebekah recently posted…Girly Bits Cosmetics – Our Lips Are Sealed
I really struggle too – and I don’t even have children! I am SO busy I’m just so tired in the evenings and now a morning songbird (ever) so just making myself a juice or breakfast in the morning leads to me giving myself a good pat on the back in congratulations. I used to work out loads! I’ve found that eating really well gives me more energy and means I am more likely to bite the bullet and go for it. Forcing myself out for a jog (even though I actually hate running) or going to a class means you have no one to distract you 🙂
It is so hard to workout at home with kids! I’m trying to do it more by taking barre classes, and I’m doing twice a week. (They have childcare!)
My 2 year old totally does the horsey thing to me. I workout at their bed time, my husband does bedtime most nights so I can hit the treadmill.
Jessica Doll recently posted…Travel Tips / Fit On The Go + Giveaway
What I can take from this is that I’ll cherish my peace while I have it. And do nothing but cherish the one once more of it gets here 😀
Jordan recently posted…Dark Chocolate Tart with Berries
I don’t even have kids yet and I suck at working out!!
Raewyn recently posted…Wedding Wednesday: Our Moments
I remember my son crawling or toddling over to me when I tried to do sit-ups or something and he’d be giggling and smiling at me while trying to climb atop me for a ride. I would always just give up and play. Babies are more fun than exercise. lol
Liz Mays recently posted…Don’t Miss the Exclusive #FoodLionBoxTops For Education Offer!
I try working out, but time management doesn’t work well for me. Between the blog, my full time job, being a single mom… I just haven’t found a time for it
Lisa Heath recently posted…Great Vaseline® offers + Expert Beauty Advice (and a Walgreen’s $50 Gift Card Giveaway!)
I don’t have kids yet, but I still have problems working out! I remember when my brother was very young, my mom would put him in the gym’s daycare program or take him on a walk in a stroller!
Ashley Nicholas recently posted…college dorm room essentials
Working out? What’s that? I haven’t done that since my twins were born. They’re about to turn two. I just cannot seem to work in into my day. So I admire you for trying.
Katy Rawson recently posted…#UpgradeYourSleep with Comforpedic iQ
I like to squeeze my workouts in after the kids have gone to bed. As soon as the last kid closer their eyes, I’m off to living room to get it in high gear. You could also try incorporating the kids in your workouts by asking them to join along.
YUMMommy recently posted…Thankful Thursday
I don’t have children and even then it’s hard to workout and stay motivated. Perhaps some workout DVD’s you can quietly do while your kids sleep? Or YouTube videos!
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