Making Exercise a Priority

I don’t have time to work out.

My kids have activities in the evenings.

That’s the only time I get to see my husband.

These are all legitimate reasons that stop us from getting to the gym.

But what happens when we stop taking care of our bodies? What happens when we don’t make our own health a priority?

Two out of three Americans can tell you. We end up overweight, sometimes obese. Those extra pounds take a toll on our bodies, too. They lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease.

The good news is it’s avoidable. It’s also treatable. If you make your health a priority.

• Join a gym with great child care. Look for one that includes a play area to keep your child’s interest like a rock-climbing wall or a giant slide. If you can only exercise at night, make sure the hours meet your needs.
• Pick a gym that’s close to your house, or work, to cut down on travel time.
• If no child care is available at the gym, take turns watching the kids with your partner. This gives them an opportunity to exercise as well.
• Make exercise a family activity. Walk the dog together. Go for a bike ride. Head to the beach to jog and make sand castles.
• Use a jog stroller to make the most of nap time.
• Hire a personal trainer. Not only are you more likely to exercise because you’re paying for your workout, but you’ll enjoy the extra encouragement and expertise a personal trainer can offer.

Whatever you do, don’t feel guilty about making time for yourself. The healthier you are, the more you’re able to take care of others.

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Alice Warchol is a fitness instructor and freelance health writer.