There was point in my life when I did not go to bed until 4:30 AM. I spent several years working in restaurants - often as a second job - and it was not unusual to unwind with coworkers for a few hours after closing time. This was mainly on weekends and I could sleep a few hours and still function for the rest of the day. Those days, I could go to the gym after work, enjoy a late dinner, and my only concern was taking care of myself an my dog.
My life is much different now. Between my career, family, and other miscellaneous commitments I still require the same amount of stamina that I had in my early twenties but the flow of energy has changed. Late dinners are out of the question as I insist that our family sits at the dining room table and we eat together. With a toddler who has a strict 8:30 bedtime (we're working towards 8:00 or even earlier since she has decided to give up naps on most days), dinner needs to be on the table by 7 PM at the latest.
Working within these parameters, I have the following options to get in my exercise:
A. I can squeeze in a workout right after work
B. I can exercise after she goes to bed
C. I can get out for bits and pieces during the day (quick walk at lunch, quick walk with the dogs and family in the evening, etc)
D. I can get up before the rest of the house and get my workout in.
Each option has it's pros, cons, and barriers:
A. Pro: If my bag is packed and I go straight to the gym I am more likely to stick to my plan. Con: I miss what precious little time I have with my daughter on weeknights. Barrier: I can easily get thrown off schedule with little events such as a quick trip to the grocery store or an evening commitment.
B. Pro: I don't feel rushed and the gym is empty or if I'm exercising at home there are usually prime time television options to watch during my workout. Con: Sacrifice time with my husband. Barrier: It takes a lot of will power to start moving once I get home and am comfortable.
C. Pro: I can always find 10 - 15 minutes if I really put my mind to it. Con: If I'm training for an event I don't get the training that I need to prepare for the event. Barrier: This barrier is all in my mind because I really should be doing these short bursts of activity every day anyway.
D. Pro: There will be no schedule conflicts at the break of dawn. Con: Getting ready for work on a tight schedule. Barrier: My bed is comfortable and 4:30 comes early.
This summer, I've chosen option D. The sun is rising when I leave the house at 4:45. As long as I get to bed early enough, I can still get at least 6 hours of sleep. Husband and I alternate days so someone is always home with our child. I am reminded how much I actually enjoy the peace and quiet of the early morning.
With any fitness routine, you need to do what works. Finding an activity that you enjoy is one key and finding the time is another. For me, at this stage in my life, I need the accountability of a scheduled group exercise class - be it studio cycling, weight training, or something else that is offered at the time I need. As a wife, mother, employee, jack of all trades, I can get lost in my other duties that I don't make as much time for myself as I should. The kicker is, making time for myself, and feeling good about myself the way I do when I've gotten in my activity for the week (over the course of several days) makes me better at all my other roles. Plus, I still have time to sit down for our family dinner.
And I'm still responsible for the dog.
The JFA Worksite Wellness Team shares stories, tips and information about living well, or doing the best they can, while balancing life and working as worksite wellness professionals.
