As parents we know that the health behaviors we demonstrate to our children are most likely the health behaviors they will adopt. We try so hard to expose our children to new veggies as infants in the hopes that they will someday enjoy them all. We enter our children into every sporting activity possible hoping something will set off a spark in them. We limit screen time in order to encourage physical activity. But, what are we demonstrating?
Studies show that we as parents are the main source of the socialization
and development of physical activity habits in our children. If we are not demonstrating our need to make health and physical activity a priority, how can they be expected to learn anything else?
Parenthood affects the physical activity levels of both men and women, but women experience it to a greater level. One study found that mothers spend about 90 minutes less engaging in physical activity than men over the course of two weeks. Another study indicates that women with children exercise 37% less than women without children. These stats combined with the nationwide stats on physical activity levels means we as mommies are not doing so well.
So, what do we do to help reverse this trend? First, look at your “barriers.” Write them down and share them with others. It is possible that some of the things that are holding you back are easily crossed off the list. Secondly, look to those around you for support. We need family and social support to make most things in our lives run a bit more smoothly, and exercise is no different. Ask your hubby to take the kids to the park while you walk around the block a few times. Swap childcare with a neighbor to free up some time to workout. Ask a girlfriend to send you friendly little text reminders about why you are making exercise a priority. Tell yourself you deserve it. Your children deserve it.
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