Four Exercises that will Make you a Better Parent
By: Keith
I know many parents who are not fit, and a few who are. I have observed the quality interaction fit parents can give to their kids versus what unfit parents can provide. I happen to live in a city and a state that ranks in the top 5 nationally in fitness, which I am quite happy about. I can’t remember the last time I saw a truly obese person here in Boulder Colorado. But, I’ve also lived in Wisconsin and Texas and, although I love both states, they generally do not value fitness the same. That is a shame. Fitness is absolutely essential to being the best parent that you can be. It stimulates your mind and relieves stress by pumping endorphins through your body. It also makes chasing after kids and participating with them on their level possible where otherwise you would simply be a referee. You don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy the benefits of exercise, and I guarantee that a little bit goes a long way. You absolutely must find time during the day to exercise. Here are a few things you can do:
1. Yoga
There is no better exercise for a parent than yoga. You can do a short 30 minute routine or a longer hour and a half session depending on the time you have. If you choose only one exercise to do it should be yoga. Flexibility, balance, relaxation, calorie burn. What else do you want? Want a DVD? Here, this one is balls! Bryan Kest Power Yoga. It is an older DVD and a bit dated with the 90′s hair,but it’s one of teh best yoga DVD’s on the market (I own at least 10 different ones and I recommend this tops).
2. Weight lifting
Other than yoga this is the next best thing you can do for yourself because, believe it or not, that baby you’re toting around is going to become big, strong, and fast. If you can’t keep up then you’re toast. The great thing about weightlifting is that you only need some resistance bands to get it done, no need for dumbbells if you’re short on cash. And, there are plenty of routines to be found online that take only 15 minutes to perform. Bingo! There ya go! Oh, and a secret to weightlifting. Muscle burns calories even at rest, while fat does not. Yeah, that’s your metabolism thanking you.
3. Pilates
This is sorta like yoga but it focus almost exclusively on your core area. I list Pilates in addition to Yoga because I found a DVD that takes only 15 minutes that is great to do when you only have a few minutes before the kids wake up. It is Classical Pilates. It goes pretty fast, but after a few times you won’t have problems. Do it if you have little time. Your core will thank you.
4. Running
Running is something you can do when you have not even a second away from the kids. Why do I say that? Because you can buy a running stroller and take your kids with you! You’ll burn about 100 calories every 10 minutes and your kid will love the scenery. I’ve won three 5k’s while pushing a stroller so I can attest that it is not too hard to push and run.
There you have it. I’ve given you pearls of wisdom. Now go do yourself and your kid a favor and start working out. You’ll feel good, you’ll look good, and you’ll be a nicer person (remember those endorphins I was talking about?). Any questions?
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Wow, what a unique point of view. I like it!
Most people have a general idea that they need to exercise– they just don’t do it. However, seeing someone who is a model of what they preach– like you– now that’s motivating amidst a mountain of hypocrisy.