Taking a little time today to talk about my current favorite, easy workouts for busy millennial parents.
Working out isn’t my favorite thing to do. Shocker, right? Like a lot of folks, I find it challenging to be consistent and motivated enough to do it. And also, like a lot of folks, I feel a lot better when I actually do it.
I’m getting older. I’m 36 and my metabolism, especially after two kids, isn’t what it used to be. While I’m a thin person and that’s my natural body type, I’ve definitely noticed it’s been harder to stay “fit” in my 30s. Logically I’m aware that it shouldn’t be a big deal to age, gain weight, and that it’s totally normal not to have the body that I had in my 20s or pre-kids.
But the truth is, I still care about how I look. It’s hard to experience my face and my body getting older. Some days, I don’t care at all, and some days I’m ready to book my first botox appointment. It’s a constant battle, especially given the society we live in.
So I admit, I’m motivated by physical appearance to workout, but not only that, I’m actively reminding myself that more than anything it’s important to do it for the health benefit.
Healthcare is so terrible in the US. Not only is it expensive, it’s not that great either. The idea of keeping myself out of that system a bit more by trying to be somewhat physically healthy is a big motivator (because I’m truly not that healthy, ok?).
But if you’re a parent and a working one at that, it’s so hard to find the energy and the time.
Below are my favorite workouts for busy millennial parents:
Popsugar Fitness Youtube Workouts
There are many amazing options on Popsugar Fitness, for free! Sometimes, you’ll be interrupted by ads if you’re using the free version but overall it’s great. I’ve done numerous workouts here and my favorites are the ones by Jake Dupree. I like a mix of exercises that are a bit fast-paced but there’s something for everyone on there. This is my current go-to:
Jake Dupree Cardio and Toning: 30-minute workout
And I did this 30 Days to a Flat Belly workout a few years ago.
Club SAR in Scottsdale:
If you live in the East Valley, I highly recommend Club SAR for a cheap, low-stakes place to workout. It’s $4 for class or day pass if you’re a Scottsdale resident and $6 if you’re not. I love that there are no signup fees or anything like that. You show up, pay by cash or card, and it’s simple as that. (The memberships are low cost compared to other options too if you do decide to do that).
Lately, I’ve been attending either the spin, barre, or kickboxing classes they offer, depending on whatever weekday my spouse has off from work. And if you don’t want to go to a class, I’m pretty sure you can workout in the main areas and use the equipment.
Since it’s a community gym, the bikes and all of that aren’t top-of-the-line, fancy stuff, but it does the trick! The music is good and the instructors are great. I love that this gym and the ease and affordability of it exist. Such a hidden gem!
Fun fact: I actually went to Club Sar in college with some girlfriends I had at the time. It’s so funny going back there some 15 years later now!
Lastly, doing things at home is a good option if you can force yourself to set aside the time. I just bought a jump rope so I’ll let you know how that goes. But the peeing in your pants risk factor certainly increases on an exercise like that…
(I finally understand this lady now, btw…)
Anyhoo, these are my favorite workouts for busy millennial parents. But when all else fails, grab a bag of flamin’ hots, say fuck it and give it all a go some other time 🤷♀️
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