As a mother, there is nothing more rewarding than watching your child grow and develop. However, as you watch them advance to learn new skills such as walking and talking, many parents often forget that we must care for ourselves in the same way we care for our children. Like them, we also need to grow and develop – only instead of learning to talk and walk; we need to learn how to exercise and take care of our mental well-being. Living an active life also helps mothers stay healthy and avoid common diseases like diabetes and cancer.

Make Small, Achievable Goals to Stay Motivated

When we set ourselves up for failure by creating unrealistic expectations, we often end up quitting before we start. For example, if your goal is to lose 10 pounds in 2 weeks, you’re likely going to fail. Setting a goal to lose one pound a week, on the other hand, is much more achievable. So make sure you set yourself up for success by creating reasonable short-term goals that will help you reach your long-term goal.

Take a Walk with Your Kids

Walking is a low-impact activity that is great for mothers who are just starting to exercise. It can be a way to bond with your child while getting the heart rate up and burning calories. For those who want a little more of a challenge, walking on an incline for at least 30 minutes will burn more calories and tone the legs, butt, and abs.

Eat Healthy Food

It’s not just what you eat, but how much that matters. Eating healthy foods in small portions can help mothers maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity-related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. It can also improve your mood and energy level, so you have more time to be active.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can diminish energy levels, making it harder to get active and stay active. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day can help mothers avoid dehydration and stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise.

Make Working Out a Priority

Like anything, the more a mother puts her workouts on a schedule and sticks to it, the more likely she will stick with it. So whether it’s early in the morning or while your child takes a nap, try setting aside time for you so you can continue getting healthy and living an active lifestyle. Making a financial investment in joining a gym or fitness studio might be the motivation you need to get up and out the door.

Park Away from the Storefront

Instead of parking in the closest spot to the store’s entrance, park your car at the far end of the parking lot. This will force you to walk more, which can help you stay active and burn calories.

Take the Stairs instead of the Elevator

This may be obvious, but taking the stairs gives you a great cardio workout that can help tone your butt and legs. So next time you see those stairs, don’t be afraid to take them!

Exercise during TV Commercials

Mothers need to utilize every opportunity when they can. So instead of getting up to get a snack during the commercial breaks, stay in your seat and do some crunches or leg lifts. This will burn calories while also helping you feel accomplished before the show comes back on.