It’s a common question on the minds of most moms when the weather beckon kids outside: “What can I do for exercise outdoors while my child is playing?”
Below are ideas for four outdoor workouts to help you burn calories while keeping an eye on the little one(s).
Fun in the Sun. While the rugrats are running through the sprinklers or playing outside, put yourself through a circuit style workout. Try a series of body weight moves such as squats, walking lunges, push-ups and sit-ups. Mix it up with two minutes of cardio in between the exercises by running in place or jumping rope. Repeat the circuit as time allows.
The Classic Game Workout. Persuade the youngsters into a game of freeze tag (you’ll get to work on your agility while you’re at it!). You can also turn the game into what I like to call “Jumping-Jack Flash Freeze Tag.” Set the rule that everyone has to do 10 jumping jacks after someone is tagged. Or, if you’re playing Hide & Seek, do a couple of plank holds, pushups and sit-ups when it’s your turn to count.
Playground Workout. Get up and play with your little one! Turn the playground into your own obstacle course – you’ll be surprised how many calories you can burn by climbing up and down ladders, walking across a rope course, and swaying through the monkey bars. Throw in a set of elevated push-ups using the equipment for an upper body exercise. Set a time goal and keep moving! Challenge your little one to a race around the playground for extra cardio. You’d never know you could have this much fun working up a sweat.
Runner’s and Walker’s Workout. If you’re a runner or walker, but find it hard to fit in your mileage, bring the kids with you. Invest in a jogging stroller for the youngsters. Older kids can follow along side you on a scooter or their bicycle (just make sure they are wearing a helmet.) You can even play “red light-green light” to make it fun and keep their attention. Consider hitting up the local track – the kids can either join you (scooter and bike option) or play in the field while you workout.
During the Runner’s or Walker’s workout, you may hear objections. After all, kids can be complainers. “It’s too hot. I’m tired. I don’t want to do this anymore.” When objections arise and the whining starts, tell them how important it is to stay physically active and that you enjoy doing it with them.
If they just don’t get it, you might need to get firm and say: “When mommy exercises, it makes me a nice mommy.” Because as the saying goes – if momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.
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