Being a mom makes it hard to do things for yourself. But being a single mom makes a lot of things even more challenging. Simple things like running out to the store, or walking the dog is not so simple when they involve getting the kids out the door to accompany you. You can’t just leave the kids in the house with another parent to grab some milk at the store, it is a whole event. But working out as single mom is a challenge. You can’t just leave the house for a run, or go to a fitness class. It takes planning, a great amount of determination, and some creativity.

Although we understand the benefits of working out, the time to exercise may seem like a luxury we cannot afford. It is not easy, but it is an absolute must. You can not and I do mean you absolutely can not afford not to do it, because now that you are a single mom, many people are counting on you. You have to take care of yourself and take charge of your health. below are some tips to get you started.

1. Make yourself a priority.

Listen to me darling, your children's well being rest solely on your shoulders now, you have to make care of yourself, there is no way around that. You need to put your health first, you need to create a workout routine and stick with it. And you are setting a good example for your children by making time to take care of yourself, which ultimately allows you to take better care of them.

2. Do Something you actually enjoy.

As a single mom it is going to be hard to be motivated to do a workout when you are tired, busy, and stressed, and your kids aren’t cooperating. It feels like another thing to add on your already crwoded to do list. But if you can find that one exercise routine or activity that you love, you’ll look forward to it and you will be more motivated to do it. For example I do enjoy dancing, hiking and walking. So, I incorporate my children while doing these activities. Because I enjoy them., I am more incline to take the time to do them. My kids get to enjoy doing them as well along side me.

3. Don’t give yourself the option

I totally understand the lack of time. However, do not use it as an excuse to not exercise. Turn your shoulds into musts. Instead of saying "I really should work out" or "I should take care of myself." You need to say "I must workout," I must take care of my self." Retrain your mind. There is no maybe, it has to be an absolutely, positively yes.

4. Use what you’ve got.

Gym membership is often an expense that doesn’t necessarily fit within single mom's budget. The good news is, you don’t have to join a gym to start your workout regimen. A yoga mat and a workout video is really all you need to get started. You can incorporate yoga, core workouts, bodyweight exercises, and even intervals training. I bought a secondhand treadmill from the Facebook market place. I used it twice a week. Sometimes I would use it even if I only had fifteen minutes.

5. Include the children

Up until earlier this year, I had never worked out at a gym. I simply could not fit it into my schedule. But I would put my daughter in a stroller, have my son on his bike and go for long walks. I would also do yoga at home with both children. It is a wonderful way to teach them how to take care of their bodies while being active together as family and enjoying the moment.

Remember darlings, to just take it one day at a time. There are going to be days when you skip working out. There will be times when life just gets in the way. It’s OK. Remember tomorrow is another day, and you can start anew. You are making the effort and that counts. When you take care of you, you will reap the benefits not only in your body but also in every other area of your life. So take the best care of yourself, you absolutely deserve it.

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