Parent’s Back to School Survival Guide
By: Charlotte Vitale - Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Fitness Trainer & Physical Therapy Student at The University of Rhode Island
The start of the school year can be an exciting yet challenging time when it comes to managing your schedule. From helping with homework to making lunches, all while squeezing in time for your own daily obligations, it can be difficult to find moments to exercise. Here are a few ways to keep on track with your exercise regime, without adding extra stress into your busy life!
The best way to avoid stretching yourself too thin is by starting small. Remember, the ACSM organization recommends a minimum of 30 minutes a day of moderate aerobic activity for at least five of the seven days each week. This can be broken up into two 15-minute walks around the neighborhood, for example, before picking the kids up from school or right after dinner. You can even make it into a fun family bonding activity after school to catch up on the day!
You can also incorporate exercises into your workday, while the little ones are at school. With busy daily schedules it can be difficult to add a full workout into your day, so try a variety of briefer activities that can keep you fit and mobile. If you are working from home or at an office desk, you can take laps every hour to stretch out, or multitask by sitting and doing heel raises or seated marches while completing your work tasks. This will provide you with more energy throughout the day - ready to tackle the evening chaos of a full house!
Another option, try finding other forms of exercise that can provide stress-relieving benefits, such as committing to a yoga class once or twice a week. With the start of the school year being a hectic time for everyone in the house, continuing with or modifying your exercise goals can help elevate your mood, increase your energy level and create a positive mindset throughout the day!
Visit the Hunterdon Health & Wellness Centers and enjoy a one-day guest pass on us!