Suggestions for -->OUTDOOR<-- exercise for ridiculously busy single mom

[Anonymous]

I just realized that I have not exercised in a deliberate way since I began an intense graduate program in January. I am a trail running, climbing, kayaking sort of person who has never owned an exercise DVD or taken a Pilates class (nothing against others who participate at all, but these aren't going to happen in my world).

I admit it, I am stumped as to how I will get regular cardio and sunshine during the next two years and it really bumming me out. I leave the house at 6:50 am and working or doing coursework until 11 pm all days but one or two. Those one or two nights are sacrosanct time with the kid. Plus, they're NIGHTS so I can't see how to even combine outdoor activity and quality child time at 9pm.

Given my depressing constraints ... anyone have suggestions?

[Anonymous]

How old are your kids?

Getting exercise with them is quality time. Think of walking, skating, biking, skiing, just playing ball etc. Take them for swimming lessons--the ones I did allowed me to spend time in the pool while they did their lesson.

[Anonymous]

Take a half hour to go running around lunchtime and eat at your desk.

[Anonymous]

this is why people own exercise CDs and take a Pilates class, I guess.

[Anonymous]

Walking is fantastic exercise. Can you do it at lunch time? Short breaks during the day?

[Anonymous]

I used to feel like you about classes and such. Only mountain biking and trail running for me. Then I had kids, went to grad school, etc. No more mtn biking.

Really got into spinning classes and Tae Bo videos at home, and I'm grateful that option exists. I would revisit the idea of a gym, some of the classes are really fun and hard!

[Anonymous]

is your child old enough to be left alone in the house? Can you go for a run at 5am? Can you bike to work/class?

[Anonymous]

With that schedule, you have to set your sights lower and work it into your day - take several 15 min walks throughout the day - if you can, run outside at lunchtime. Could you use your commute as exercise - bike to and from work? Save the kayaking/mountain biking for the weekends, and as a pp said, that is great idea to do those activities with your kid.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:With that schedule, you have to set your sights lower and work it into your day - take several 15 min walks throughout the day - if you can, run outside at lunchtime. Could you use your commute as exercise - bike to and from work? Save the kayaking/mountain biking for the weekends, and as a pp said, that is great idea to do those activities with your kid.

OP here. I think I will attempt this sort of approach. For me, it's as much about sunshine and outdoor air and wind on my face as it is "getting fit." Which is why exercise DVDs or 6 a.m. classes kind of miss the mark, psychologically. Thanks all!