Fitness for Busy Parents

Finding the time to exercise is a problem that many people face given their busy lives. From working to taking care of children, finding time for yourself is difficult.

Regular exercise is good for your health and well-being. Studies have shown that regular exercise, 30-60 minutes a day, decreases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It also improves mood and sleep schedules.

So how can you include exercise in your busy day? Here are some tips:

1. Walk the walk. At work, try to avoid sitting for long periods of time. Try walking up stairs instead of taking an elevator. Take a walk during your lunch break. On the weekends, walk to the park with your children.
2. Make chores fun. Add a little fun to your routine cleaning. If you need to clean up after your children, turn it into a game of who can pick up and put away 10 things the fastest. This will definitely get you and your children moving!
3. Try exercising in short spurts. Being active for 5 to 10 minutes at a time is better than not working out at all. This can mean doing a 5 or 10 minute workout video before and after work.
4. Download a fitness app! There are so many free apps available for iPhone and Android users that can help you stay active. Here are some apps that you can try:
   • The Johnson & Johnson 7-minute Workout app is great. It provides quick workouts you can do at home.
   • Google Fit is an app that tracks walking, running, and cycling activity. It allows you to set goals for yourself.
   • Sweatcoin tracks your walking activity and converts your steps into money and discounts!

Remember: some exercise is better than no exercise. How do you keep your busy body active?