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Summer can make it hard to find time for parents to be able to exercise without trying to find a sitter. If you’re looking for a back to school workout challenge, we’ve got some tips for you to get back on track.

Back to School Workout Challenge

First of all, be sure you’re mentally ready to begin again. Change your attitude and mindset about exercise and get excited that you have the opportunity to have time to go out and work on yourself.

Second of all, if previous exercise routines or classes haven’t worked in the past, figure out why. Don’t go back to something that doesn’t work for you. For example, some people love running and others hate it. You should feel good about what you’re doing!

Do some research into different at-home workouts, gyms in your area, and personal trainers. You may discover you love a new sport or simply to lift weights and push yourself in that way.

When you’ve decided what you want to do and you’re ready to workout, here are some tips to stay on track:

1. Make a Workout Challenge Schedule

This is a back to school workout challenge in and of itself sometimes but making a calendar to stick to can help you be reminded that you wanted to be better and that you have the time to do it.

You can also look ahead at what classes you’re going to attend throughout the week to be sure to remember any time changes or to get excited about a new class to try.

2. Buy New Clothes

We know that buying new clothes or shoes makes us excited to wear them out or find an excuse to wear them. Same thing goes for workout clothes–they’ll make you want to use them1

Workout clothes can be expensive, so looking at stores like Ross, TJ Maxx, and Nordstrom Rack can save you money while still getting great brands.

3. Fast and Focused Workouts

Have you ever been at the gym and someone is walking around, not really working out? These people will most likely say they went to the gym for 2 hours, despite only working out for 30 minutes total.

Give yourself 30-45 minutes to complete a workout so that you know you have no time to dilly dally. Take short breaks between reps and keep your heart rate up. Short workouts can be just as, if not more, effective than a 90 minute one.

4. Start Slow

As mentioned, when you go workout it’s important that you actually workout.

However, if its been some time since your last physical activity, it’s probably a good idea to start slowly.

For example, if you have been relaxing all summer, then don’t set a goal to run 5 miles daily – that’s unrealistic.

If you set unrealistic goals and fail to meet them, you’re likelier to give up entirely – so start slowly and set achievable goals.

5. Grab a Partner

You may have some other stay-at-home or part-time working parents that also want to exercise. Your kids may even want to join you on your morning or afternoon walks/runs.

Having someone to share in your goals can keep you accountable and keep it fun. People are more likely to workout when they have a friend counting on them to join them.