Save Money, Skip the Gym & Work Out at Home

Working out and staying fit has number of physical and mental benefits. When you exercise you generally have more energy, you sleep better, and your eating habits improve. As busy moms, we are juggling a million items are on our to do list every day, which makes it difficult to run to the gym and get forty-five minutes of cardio in on the treadmill. If you have little children, you may have to find a sitter or a gym with child care. In these economic times gym memberships seem to be more of a luxury than a necessity. But, don’t make this an excuse to skip your work out. If you can’t afford to go to the gym or you simply don’t have the time, create your own home gym. Working out in the comfort of your own home can be both affordable and convenient.

First, pick a space in your home that has an adequate amount of room for you to exercise and put your equipment in. This can be spare room, a family room, the basement, or even a covered garage. Any place in your home that is comfortable and cool will make a great place to work out.

Your work out regime will determine the equipment you will need. If you thrive on cardio you may want to invest in a treadmill or an elliptical machine. Check out Craig’s List or your local newspaper for deals on exercise machines. Invest in some weights I suggest 3-5 pounds, you’ll be surprised at how defined your arms can get just by lifting three pound weights 3-4 days a week. Stock your fitness room with mats, fitness magazines, resistance bands, a balance ball, a television and a dvd player to watch workout DVDs, a cd player or an iPod if music inspires you. Also have plenty of water on hand, if you have one of those miniature refrigerators this would be a great place to put it to use.

I find the best way to stay consistent with a workout routine is to record your progress. Hang a chart on the wall to monitor how often you are working out, your weight loss or gain, goals, etc. Keep in mind we are constantly burning calories just by running after our kids, doing housework, running errands, and doing yard work. A great calorie buster is running up and down the stairs, you can do this instead of the stairmaster, it is a great form of cardio. Have an exercise plan before you begin to maximize your time and to get the best results.

Try fitting in at least 2-3 workouts a week, think of it as your, “me time.” When you workout you feel stronger, think clearer, and are overall healthier. You don’t have to spend $80.00 a month on a gym membership, or a ton of money on a personal trainer, make your work out feasible for your lifestyle. Your workout room can be a place where the whole family can go to get healthy. With autumn around the corner and the weather getting cooler this is a perfect time to create a space in your home to help you stay fit.

When your kids see you working out and being active they are more likely to take care of themselves. Having a workout room in your home will not only benefit you, but everyone else. I still urge you to get outdoors and go for a run or walk for as long as the weather allows, but keep in mind that you can bring the gym to you. Honor your God-given temple by exercising regularly, eating fresh nutritious food, and getting plenty of rest. Remember it isn’t just about fitting into those skinny jeans it is about having a strong body so that you can be your best for yourself and your family.

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved