Exercising is important to your physical, mental and emotional health. But with most other things in the life of a mother, it doesn’t just effect you. Have you ever considered the need to exercise with your kids?

When you were little did you exercise with your mom? Did you ever see her exercise? What was the impact that had on you?

Regardless if our moms exercised with us or not, today we are shifting the paradigm.

[bctt tweet=”The modern mom exercises WITH her kids. #healthyliving #beanexample #motherhood”]

7 Reasons MOMS need to exercise with their kids

INVOLVING THEM CREATES A BOND

Yes! Involve them! Most mom’s wait until nap time or until kids are at school to work out. I have even been caught doing this.

But now is the time to stop.

Yes it’s a little more hassle, but work your way around it. Exercising with your kids creates a bond, literally. Those are the times your kids will remember.

the laughing,

the motivation,

the encouragement,

seeing you push for something,

working toward goals

consistent efforts to live healthy

Those are all lessons that will stand out in your child’s mind. There is only so many years that they will want to work out with you. Take advantage of that opportunity now.

HEALTHY FAMILY HABITS

Sometimes mom needs to be the calm, confident push for a family to add healthy habits.

I had this teacher back in college that was such a role model for me. I had many classes from her throughout the years. She was the perfect example of healthy living.

She had created a family habit of going on a walk after dinner every night. She would wait to do dishes the next day, or just later in the evening. Every night after dinner her family would walk around the block. Sometimes only one time, sometimes a few times.

At first they were pushing strollers, then had little ones along side on scooters or bikes. Finally the day came when it was only her and her husband. But the two of them still do it.

Talk about healthy habits for life!

Going for walks isn’t a big thing, but these are the type of healthy family habits we are striving to create. Small & consistent.

THAT PART ABOUT ENDORPHINS

Have you ever seen Legally Blonde? Do you remember that part where she says “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy & happy people just don’t shoot their husbands”. hahaha I laugh at that every time.

But in all seriousness, Miss Blonde has a point. Exercise makes you happy! That is a perfect reason to exercise with your kids!

[bctt tweet=”Exercise makes mom and kids happy! #exercisetogether #mommyhabits #healthyliving”]

BORDOM BUSTER

Exercising is an AWESOME way for mom & child to get over that boredom slump & get some energy out! When I see my little boy do his “bored walk” I know it’s time for mom to intervene and suggest some activities that will help get some energy out!

READY TO LEARN

A calm, worn out kid is a kid ready to learn.

After exercising with my son and he is all worn out is my favorite time to teach him. Even just little things. But I can focus on learning colors, the ABCs, or even “rules of the house”. His mind is more submissive and ready to learn!

And the crazy part, he retains these lessons far better than other times I’m trying to teach him.

After exercising is the perfect time we either read a book {and that’s when I teach letters, or colors, or shapes…}, or we lay down on the floor together and stare at the ceiling. Then it doesn’t feel like I’m teaching, it just feels like I’m talking out loud. And he remembers.

THAT PART WHERE IT’S GOOD FOR YOU. . . AND FOR THEM

Exercise has been proven to have ah-mazing results. The benefits aren’t even just immediate {although those have its place too}.

Let me just share a few of the many benefits of exercise:

improves memory {which means they will do better in school},

strengthens muscle and bone structure,

improves the cardiovascular system,

it regulates blood pressure,

reduces stress {which is linked to hundreds of diseases},

better metabolism

reduced risk for obesity,

more confidence,

improved concentration,

decreases anxiety

reduces depression

dramatically improves their sleep

it helps a child feel they can accomplish & overcome obstacles which builds self-esteem

And those are just to name a few. These reasons alone should make you convinced that you must exercise with your kids.

SILENCE SAYS A LOT

The most important lesson of all is the part where you are an example. You don’t have to sit and tell your child every day that exercise is important. He can tell because he sees you do it on a weekly basis. And even better, you invite him to do it with you.

[bctt tweet=”Be the example of the lessons you want to teach your children! #healthyliving #motherhood”]. Your actions will speak louder than words.

Now that you know why you should exercise with your kids, here the absolute best apps for home workouts!