Fit Tip Friday: Back to School

Being successful with your fitness program comes down to being consistent and sticking with a plan, two things that back to school time can wreak absolute havoc upon.

I know, I have two young boys as well.

The mornings are crazy and chaotic. Afternoons are often even worse. There is school shopping, school sports and school activities. The routine you have been following for the past few months goes right out the window. More time is spent sitting in the car and less time is spent being active. Meals are often rushed and grabbed on-the-go. It’s a surefire recipe for disaster, right?

Well, it doesn’t have to be.

When the frenetic pace of back to school time is in full swing, you need to focus on two primary things:

1. Preparation
2. Shorter workouts

Preparation: This goes for both your workouts as well as your eating plan.

When it comes to your workouts, check your kids’ schedules every Sunday and see where you can fit in your longer sessions throughout the week. My personal top “secret” to getting in my workouts at this time of year is to do them during my boys’ sports practices. Instead of sitting and watching them on the field (which they really don’t want anyway!) I will get in a run and/or bodyweight workout at the same time. This is not only an awesome way to get in your longer workout sessions, it also shows your children that you value your health as well. Watch their games and work out while they work out.

When it comes to eating, we all know that being super-busy can lead to poor food choices. It is far easier to grab what is most convenient, which often means fast-food options. Plan ahead, bringing heathy snacks and small meals for both you and your children when you are out and about.

Meals at home can also be challenging during the week. Once again, plan ahead, preparing extra meals on Sunday that you can store and then enjoy later in the week.

Shorter Workouts: I have said it many times before and I will say it again - The future of fitness is performing multiple short sessions throughout the day. Get up fifteen minutes earlier and get in a session on the MAX, TreadClimber or perform a circuit-style bodyweight workout. Do a three minute stretch routine before lunch, a four minute core workout before dinner and five minutes of push-ups and planks before bed. Every single minute counts.

Life is by definition chaotic. There will always be things that get in the way of your regular exercise routine. The solution to staying on track? A little planning and some shorter sessions.

Here is a four-move full-body workout that you can do anywhere, even with your kids while waiting for the bus!

The Six-Minute Bodyweight Back-to-School Circuit

1. Skaters
2. Squats
3. Push-Ups
4. Plank

Do each move for 30 seconds, three times through.

Want more workout ideas? Check out our YouTube channel.