Habits, Weight Loss

Lose Weight this Summer and Build a Stronger Family Bond


Have you spent the last nine months working out that perfect daily routine, only to have it come to a screeching halt this past month?

This time of year can become daunting for a busy mom.  School is out and summer is here!  This is a happy and joyful time for most people, but when you are a SWAHP with a busy schedule this can become added stress to your day.

You have worked so hard to find the perfect time for completing that workout.  You may be getting a little worried about when you are going to get exercise in now.  You no longer have to fear the lack of exercise during the summer.Photo: Ester Gibbons

Sure, your kids are home more.  That is not a reason to skip the exercise.  Take this summer to enjoy your kids while still getting your exercise in.

One secret I have learned is that when my son is home I am actually more likely to get up and exercise.  Why is this?  Because, he loves to have his SWAHM play with him.  I just use this time to become creative with my exercise and invent a new routine that both he and I can enjoy.

Forget the idea of going to the gym, unless you have been able to create a schedule that works year round.  Yes, I said it…You Do Not Need the Gym!

Rather than spend all of your time at the hot, stinky gym give yourself the joy of fresh air.

When the weather is nice outside, go to the park on a regular basis.  This is a great way to enjoy time with your children while still providing yourself with a fabulous workout opportunity.  Both you and your children will enjoy the health benefits along with the bonding time.

Photo: Eric LewisIf your children are too young for the equipment, they’ll enjoy walking with you or playing games such as tag or race.  This is a prime opportunity for some mild exposure to the sun that can provide many health benefits.  Plus, allow you to enjoy exercise that is not a grueling workout in the gym.

If your children are a bit older you will be able to enjoy more strenuous activities.  How long has it been since you’ve ridden a bike or enjoyed a backyard sport?  Do not stop there, the park also provides a great source of exercise equipment.  Playing on the monkey bars works upper body, swinging will work the core and legs along with cardiovascular endurance.  Get creative with your workouts and build a routine that involves the playground. Or, just dedicate half an hour to following your kids around and doing anything that they do.  It is incredible how their play actually has the ability to give us busy moms, the workout of our life.

There are many activities that you can enjoy together as a family.  By involving your children in these healthy activities you will not only enjoy your workout, but you will help instill healthy behaviors with in your children.

Remember that you do not need to have a formal exercise routine to stay fit and healthy.  Continue to eat properly, get plenty of rest, and enjoy outdoor family activities and your health will improve.  Your family bond will become stronger and you will build healthy habits that your children will continue to use into families of their own.

What do you do for summer, family, weight loss fun?  Share below.

What are your thoughts? Share them below, I love your feedback.

Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in:

WordPress.com Logo

You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. Log Out /  Change )

Facebook photo

You are commenting using your Facebook account. Log Out /  Change )

Connecting to %s

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.