2020 has definitely been a year filled with challenges so far. Since we are still practicing social distancing during this pandemic, it can make it hard to stay as active as you were when you were able to go out more and go to the gym. I think one of the most important things that can help you maintain a sense of normality and calm is to plan a routine and stick with it! I found myself staring into the fridge several times a day in search of a snack. I think it so easy to form bad snacking habits when you have more down time on your hands- not to mention I am currently snacking for two! Since I have baby four in my belly, it is super important to me to stay active and healthy during this extra time I have at home. I have listed some of the things I have added into my daily routine that have helped me get in some extra steps and maintain a healthy diet. Hopefully some of these things will help you if you have found yourself struggling like I was at first!
At Home Workouts
There are so many ways you can access workouts out from home that use minimal or no equipment. Pinterest is filled with different toning exercises, Youtube has every workout imaginable and there are a ton of apps! Take some time to research what exercise will fit your needs and looks like something that will keep your attention.
Food Prep
If you have an extra few minutes throughout the week, try to prep snacks and meals. I know I will usually make a healthier choice if I can reach into the fridge and grab fruit or veggies that have already been washed and chopped up. I also find it less stressful at dinner time if I have planned out what I am going to be making for my family for the week. As an extra bonus, meal prepping can also help you save money on your grocery bill because you are more likely to make a list when you shop and stick to it!
Go On A Walk
If you are getting cabin fever, throw on some shoes and get outside for a bit. Even if you aren’t power walking, you are still getting your body up and moving. Fresh air always makes me feel better, too!
Log Your Food
There are a lot of different apps that let you log your food intake throughout the day. If you prefer not using a smartphone to log, keep a journal. It can help you track how many calories you are taking in each day and help you make mindful choices when figuring out what you want to eat. I always feel like I have more success losing weight or maintaining my weight when I am logging my food.
Walk While You Talk
If you are chatting on the phone with someone, try walking around the house while you are talking. You might feel silly at first doing laps in your family room, but you will most likely forget what you are doing once the conversation takes off. I find I am able to get in a ton of extra steps throughout my day when I do this!
Make It A Family Affair
Staying active doesn’t have to be boring. If you’re not feeling into another cardio workout in front of your tv, spruce it up a bit. Grab your family members and plan a fun activity that will get you moving. It could be going on a hike, having a dance off or jumping rope. Any moving around is good for you, so you might as well make it fun!
Accountability
I have always found having a workout buddy can help you keep yourself accountable. Find a friend that also wants to stay active and healthy. Check in with one another during the week and share what things are working for you. Sharing tips and tricks, listening and checking in often can keep you on the right track!
