There are millions of reasons why having kids makes it harder to maintain your weight. Whenever they can’t finish their dinner, you’re there to help out; when you finally get them to nod off after the night time struggle, you reward yourself with that chocolate bar in the fridge. However, nothing gets in the way of your wellbeing and weight quite like the fact that you simply don’t have the time. Still, even though your precious minutes of free time are now used to take your kids to the park, you can use this as a wellness opportunity. Here’s how you can turn the local children’s playground into your own gym.
The Slide
Standing at the ladder with your arms holding the rails for support, bring your right leg up to the highest rung possible. Then, use your glutes and hamstrings to bring up your left leg, and then return to your starting position one foot at a time. Alternate between your legs for 12-15 reps on each side, and you’ll also improve your core, balance and stability.
Standing at the bottom of a slide with your back to the top, bend your left leg backwards in a lunge position and rest the foot on the slide with your hands on your hips. Then, bend your right knee until your thigh is parallel to the ground, and press through the right heel to rise back to the starting position. Do this for 10-12 reps on both legs.
The Swings
Put your hands on the ground and rest your feet on the seat of the swing, shoelaces down (you should be in a push-up position). Then – keeping your body steady and your core strong – bend your knees slowly and bring them in towards your chest. Once you’ve straightened your legs back to the starting position, repeat for 10-15 reps.
Sitting on the swing and holding the chains firmly with your hands, lean back until your torso is at a 45-degree angle and extend your legs while engaging your abs. Your arms should be gripping the swing’s chains for balance about the same height as your chest, and your body should be making a “V” shape. Then, cross your left calf over your right shin, uncross, and repeat with the other leg. Do this another 15-20 times without dropping your legs or disengaging your abs.