Tips to fit in exercise with two little children

[mixedmama]

I work part time, 3 full days per week. I have an exercise bike and a few dance DVDS which I enjoy but i find it difficult to fit them in with a 1 year old who goes off crawling round the house and a nearly 3 year old who wants to get on the bike too, or something to eat just when i get into the dancing. Sometimes they sleep at the same time, but not that often and then I have the washing, cooking etc to do.

I am finding it really diffcult to juggle everything, but have recently lost two stone with WW but after two children i know that diet is not enough and i need to do some exercise.

Any tips greatly appreciated.

[OhBling]

Is DP around? Can't he look after the children for an hour once or twice a week? DP and I see exercise as part of household tasks in a way - ie neither of us can complain about the other one doing any and we have to adapt to it. So supper is later, or whatever?

Alternatively, when you finish work, can you get CM/AP or whoever looks after the children to keep them for an extra hour so you can do some exercise? Knowing you have to leave work to exercise is a good incentive to get going. Especially if you're doing something outside the house - gym class, specific walk etc?

[mixedmama]

Some good ideas there. The DCs do go to MILs after nursery sometimes, but I have to run and get them from nursery first.... but could certainly use that time, they are only gone about an hour / hour and a half but I normally have a bath and book, but time would be better utilised.

The problem with DH looking after them is that any housebound exercise i may do DS1 will most certainly follow me.... i could do it if i actually go out i suppose.. i have some gym passes that i havent used yet so i could make a proper trip out.

[OhBling]

I'd say either DP should take the kids out for a bit. Or definitely either use the gym or even just head out for a brisk walk.

The weird thing about exercise, is that if you do it right, it feels as relaxing and good afterwards as a book and a bath. Sadly however, it's easy to forget that [note, I'm sittinghere with my gym bag on my knee, supposedly heading out but...]

[twoboots]

does your local leisure centre or gym have a creche that will take them whilst you do a class or go for a swim?
dp has long talked of the fabled time that he will get up at 6am and go for a run whilst we are still in bed!

[mixedmama]

Ah I have also had the 6am thought... so not going to happen.

I have a Virgin Active gym close to work so I could pop out for a swim or workout in my lunch break as I have the vouchers.

I am just feeling so good at the moment and really do just want to tone it all up. I always say that I am going to pop on the exercise bike during Eastenders but hasnt happened yet.

Ohbling - hope u got to the gym

[OhBling]

I did! I did! Good 40 minute swim. I feel all virtuous!

[mixedmama]

Brilliant... I done my exercise bike for a whole episode of prison break... very pleased. Now need to plan the rest of the week.