How to Start Exercising When You Hate It: 6 Fun Tips for Busy Moms
Let’s be honest: finding the time and motivation to exercise can be tough. And when you’re a busy mom, fitting it into your day can feel nearly impossible—especially if you don’t enjoy it. But here’s the good news: getting active doesn’t have to feel like a chore! In this post, I’m sharing simple, fun tips to help you start moving, even when exercise isn’t attractive.
1. Find Something You Actually Like!
If the word “exercise” makes you cringe, it’s time for a mindset shift. Think of it as movement instead—something you do for joy, energy, and strength. The goal is to find activities that you genuinely like. Try dancing around the living room, going for a nature walk with friends, hiking on weekends, or even playing tag with your kids. Better yet, do you know someone that goes to classes? Ask if you can tag along! When you find movement that feels good, it becomes something you look forward to rather than dread.
2. Incorporate Accountability & Support
It’s hard to stay consistent when you’re doing it alone. Having an accountability partner—whether it’s a friend, family member, or invest in a trainer—can make a world of difference. Remember how I suggested going with a friend to a class? Joining a supportive group helps you stay motivated, creates a sense of connection, and adds a dose of fun. When someone is cheering you on and checking in with you, it’s easier to keep going, even on the days when it’s tough.
3. Focus on How It Feels, Not How It Looks
Let’s shift the focus away from aesthetics and embrace a body-neutral approach. Instead of worrying about weight loss or fitting into a certain size, pay attention to how movement makes you feel. Maybe you’re a little stronger, a bit more energized, or even sleeping better. These benefits are just as important, and they help keep the motivation going. Looking good is the gravy.
4. Make It Convenient
The busier you are, the more important it is to make exercise convenient. The good news? You don’t need a gym membership or a perfect workout setup to get started. Think about ways to integrate movement into your day—squats while brushing your teeth, stretches during TV time, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Consistency matters more than intensity, so finding small ways to move throughout your day can lead to big results.
5. Set Realistic Expectations
You don’t need to commit to hour-long workouts to see benefits. Shift your mindset from “all or nothing” to “something is better than nothing.” Even a 5-minute walk or a few stretches can make a difference in how you feel. By setting realistic, achievable goals, you’ll build confidence and be more likely to keep going.
6. Celebrate Wins Beyond Workouts
Movement is about more than just fitness—it’s about feeling better in every aspect of life. Focus on the benefits that extend beyond workouts, like improved mood, more energy, and better sleep (and better bedtime, wink wink!). Did you play longer with your kids or feel less stiff today? Celebrate that! Acknowledging these small wins helps maintain motivation and reinforces the positive impact of moving your body.
Ready to Make a Change?
If you’re ready to find movement that feels good, fits into your busy life, and keeps you feeling strong and confident, let’s chat! I offer a free 15-minute call to help you create a personalized plan and provide the accountability you need to make it happen. Book your call today, and let’s make movement work for you!
