Give up the guilt! A mom who works out is a positive role model.
My first daughter was born when I was 30 years of age (in those days, I was considered “old”).
My son came along when I was 33 years old, and number 3, a young daughter when I was 38.
All through their childhoods I made time to exercise. To me, it was important.
As well as staying healthy and physically fit; I was in a better mood to handle their needs.
Oh yes! They cried when I left them in the “babysitting room” while I took various classes.
They verbally balked, as they grew older: however they knew if they were going to do fun activities with Mommy-she needed her workout!
Many times I felt guilty and selfish but hey, sometimes kids have to learn to give a little too.
My first few years of motherhood I was a full-time stay-at home mom (a job).
Money grew tight, and I became a home daycare provider for other working moms. I also began teaching exercise at my local gym. That offset the cost of a gym membership. Later I drove a school bus, so I could have my nights free for my children’s activities.
I still managed to squeeze in my “fitness time”.
I am now age 60. All my adult children love to workout. It is part of their daily regimen.
Looking back I realize that I had been modeling “positive behavior”. They had seen me exercise almost every day.
My exercise regimen had a positive impact on their adult lives. So many children and adults struggle with obesity, and weight related problems.
My message to all Moms with young children is:
· Don’t feel guilty about exercising!
· By exercising- you are being a positive role model to them.
· You are demonstrating to them that exercise is part of your health regimen.
· You want to stay fit for them, so you can have more energy while avoiding all the health problems linked to a sedentary lifestyle !
