Use Fitness to Bond with My Kids? Are You Crazy?

No, I’m not crazy despite what others may think. What some might call crazy, I call creative. I’ve spent many years training people (with young kids) and training myself (with my young kids present). Sometimes there’s no way around it. The kids are there, and you have a choice: NOT fit your workout in AND resent your children because they have, yet again, interfered with your plans, OR find a way to make it happen with kids around, relieve a little stress through sweat, feel more energized and ready to face the rest of your day.

It’s not always easy, and it may not be ideal, but sometimes there are no other options. Young kids, especially, aren’t always interested in watching a movie or playing with their toys if they can hang out with Mommy and/or Daddy and be a part of their activity. So, instead of fighting this natural tendency, go with it, prepare for it and not only will you get your opportunity to get a workout done, but you may find it a surprising way of bonding with your kids. It is also a great way to teach them about health and wellness. Here’s my disclaimer – don’t expect to have the most intense workout. Expect interruptions, talking and questions, “Mommy why are you so sweaty? Why can’t you talk? Why is your butt jiggling?”

Babies – Keep them in their car seat so they can watch; interact with them; let them be able to see you. Use a sling or baby bjorn and use them for added resistance – better than a weighted backpack. I used to practice for my Zumba classes this way – at a lesser intensity, of course. There are also a plethora of “Baby and Mommy”-type exercise classes that have become very popular. Here is a class that uses a stroller as exercise equipment.

Young Kids– Have a “workout bag” just for them. I found resistance bands and tubes, stretching straps and small balls go over well. The BOSU and equalizers are favorites with my 4 year old. You can even buy kid friendly crossfit equipment if you want to make this a habit. Give them their own kid size mat, a towel and water bottle and let them copy what you are doing. Be prepared to supervise and assist when necessary.

My 4 year old can churn out Burpees like a beast and loves doing wall handstands, all learned from watching me.

Tweens – At this stage, (if they’re still interested in being around you) you can let your kids get a little more serious about the workouts, using light weights with supervision, doing fewer reps and taking more rest and water breaks. My older daughter has been participating in many of my fitness classes since she was 7, not because I am trying to get her in shape, but because of necessity. I learned later how good it was for her.

Teens and up – At this point, anything goes. How wonderful if you and your child have developed a love for a particular type of fitness or exercise together. I started running with my Mom when I was in my teens, and we still do occasionally when I return home for a visit, I also started Yoga because of he,r and she fell in love with Zumba because of me. We both share a passion for fitness and health that I am now proudly passing along to my girls.