Exercise...my arch nemesis and best friend. I have always gone through waves when I've been more diligent than other times. However, over the past two years, I've made it a top priority because it strengthens my heart, boosts my mood, helps me keep my sanity, and sets a great example for my kiddos.
I have a confession to make. I have not "formally" exercised since snowshoeing December 26, 2013. I have been sledding with the boys (a great workout) a few times. But other than that we've had one wave of sickness after another sweep through our home. If I'm not sick, then one or both boys will be so I lose sleep and as a result don't make it to the gym in the morning.
I don't say this for self-pity. I say this to show my reality and share that it happens to everyone! I know there have been days I could have fit it in. I just lost my groove. I lost my motivation. We've had a lot of personal upheaval and to be honest...I just didn't care. I knew I should care but I didn't.
My scale number kept going up and my pants got a little more snug and finally, I said, "Enough is enough!". So Saturday, I went and pushed myself hard with cardio for 45 minutes. Sunday, I did 30 minutes of cardio and 30 minutes of lunges, squats, man push-ups, crunches, and tricep curls. Last night, the boys were up for various reasons, so we played musical beds and as a result...are all exhausted.
I knew I wasn't going to make it to the gym but I am recommitted to my health. What could I do? We have Amazon Prime and can stream the Instant videos onto our T.V. So I decided to search for their free videos. There was a Jillian Michaels Yoga work out. Keep in mind...I am exercising with a 3 year old and 5 year old boy. They are sitting on the floor with their legos but I know they're not going to stay there.
They easily accepted that I was going to work-out and before I knew it they were both down to their t-shirts and boxer briefs doing yoga. I'm not into the spirituality side of yoga but the stretching and strengthening...totally up my alley! I'm a kickboxing kind of gal. This was a workout video I could do with the kids without kicking them in the face or across the room. I didn't sweat as much as running but I did feel the burn.
So three days in a row. I'm hoping to incorporate the yoga video into my week with the Superheroes. They enjoyed it and even though some of the push-ups and planks involved a 3 year old sitting on my butt...it was worth it. Crunches involved an added 37 pound weight sitting on my chest as I lifted and lowered my legs. I know I'll feel the burn tomorrow and I know my kids had me model health and quality time with them.
It is so cute to see that your boys are joining in on yoga! And it's so great to hear I am not the only one who has hit the "enough is enough" spot. I think it's actually pretty common. Loving your blog and loving your posts on fitness and health in general!
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