We’ve heard it time and time again, exercise is good for your health.  Trust me, being a former personal trainer and aerobic instructor I know how important it is to get in regular exercise.  But, when I became a mom, I also understood the challenge of trying to fit it in.  And, like most busy mothers, I allowed work, family and life to get in the way of consistent exercise, but not today.

After I finish typing these words, I’m headed to the gym for a quick workout before I pick up the kids from school.  Do I still have a ton of work to do?  Yes.  Do I still need to cook?  Yes.  Do I still need to straighten the house before my boys come home?  Yes.  Will those tasks always be there?  Yes!  So, I’m taking a stand for good health today and making the decision to set all of those things aside and do something good for my body, go workout…

There are many reasons why you should join me in taking this stand for exercise, and here are 5 of them:

1.     It Boosts Your Mood.  Excuse me, but what mom doesn’t want to be happier?  What kid doesn’t want a more pleasant mother?  And, what spouse doesn’t want a less moody wife?  I think that’s reason enough to get to the gym.

2.     It Improves Energy. This may seem oxymoronic since a lot of moms are worn out from their hectic schedules, and too tired to lift weights, but exercise actually has the opposite effect and increases our energy production.  Don’t believe me?  Try it out.

3.     It Combats Health Issues.  Routine, physical activity can help prevent or manage a wide range of health concerns, like depression, high blood pressure, obesity, stroke, arthritis, and even certain types of cancer.  That should give you plenty of motivation to squeeze in a workout.

4.     It Reduces Stress.  Stress from being a mother can be overwhelming, whether it be financial stress, relationship stress, health stress, or life stress.  Exercise works to relieve tension in our body and helps you focus better, and as mentioned earlier, it boosts your mood.  These things all work to combat the unique stressors we all face with motherhood.

5.     It’s the Only Body You Have.  I believe our body is a temple, and should be treated as such.  And, regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to ensure your body is being properly maintained.  Simply put, the value of good exercise cannot be overstated.

Moms, I understand, you’re busy and that probably isn’t going to change for a very long time, but unfortunately, our bodies can’t wait.  So, join me in taking a stand to take care of ourselves, by exercising.  Your children will thank you.  Your significant others will thank you.  And, most of all, your temple will thank you.

Having problems fitting in a regular workout?  Check out my article on how busy moms can fit in a 30-minute workout. http://careermommy.hubpages.com/hub/How-to-Fit-in-a-Cardio-Workout-on-a-...