Feeling guilty for working out !!!!!

fit_and_fab_after_kids

Im a SAHM to two children 12weeks and 2years and the problem is when i workout i feel guilty like i should be doing something with them or cleaning the house! However i always make sure their feed, changed, happy and the 12week old is usually sleeping. I only workout for 60mins max in the comfort off my home with them around and only if everything is done around the house! So why do i feel guilty and have anyother mummies experienced this?????????

Willbenchforcupcakes

It's okay to feel guilty, but you have to remind yourself that taking some me time will make you a better mother! I always feel refreshed and recharged by taking care of myself, and ready to get back to the craziness that is my 27 month old and 10 month old.

stfriend

You're the only one that can take care of you, remember that! Taking care of yourself means you can take better care of them.

MindyG150

I don't think it matters what you do...if it's time away from our families we as mothers feel guilt! ALL children and spouses need their time alone and you do too! If you are good to yorself you'll be great for them!

crisanderson27

I actually feel this way to some extent as well. I'm a single Dad, 3 kids. 14, 6, and 5. I have sole custody. I work full days, and go to the gym 3x a week. The longer I work...the more my gym time suffers because I refuse to take that time from them.

When I was working out at home...that wasn't a problem though. You're still there! They're still there!!

What's the issue?

ChristyU74

My kids are 10 and 11 and I STILL feel guilty sometimes! Ridiculous, I know. Now that they're older, it's because I feel like our dinner times are rushed and with sports and activities, I don't always get to see them as much. But I know that it's something I need to do to be a better me and a better wife and mother. Working out keeps us healthier and less stressed out! It's a must!!

LorinaLynn

I can't think of anything much more important for your kiddos than having a healthy, happy, strong mommy.

IsleEsme

This is normal in my book. I have 3 kids and although they are older than yours are they still need attention. I do my best to concentrate on the fact that when I exercise I feel better and therefore it makes me a better mother. Working out and showing my kids that exercise is an important part of life is also important.

When my kids were little like yours I worked out and lost 150 pounds. (after my 3rd was born I lost 150 pounds before she turned 1) At that time I made sure all 3 kids were fed, had a toy or video to entertain them. I put my home ellipitical machine in the family room so I they could see me and I would say (at least to my oldest who was 3 at the time) "mommy is going to exercise now and exercise is important....." and that was it. It worked for us.

Now that my babies are a little older my oldest (she is 14) goes to the gym with my everyday. I love working out with her. It's great family time.

urglewurgle

I can't think of anything much more important for your kiddos than having a healthy, happy, strong mommy.

This ^^^

By exercising you will not only be able to do more with your kids, you'll be there for them for longer AND teach them good habits!

MinMin97

Yes, I can totally relate. It's hard when they are that little, it is so consuming. But good job to you , it is such a good habit to get in some exercise...you will be so glad you did.

Now that my littlest is 4yo, I feel more free because they are more "independent." However, I do my workouts very early in the morning before they are even awake.

I just feel that I have taken no time away from my family, plus I get to have a morning that is peaceful and relaxed, eat a breakfast that is correct for me, take a shower, relax a bit, do some things, and possibly even jump back into bed for a little while!

The key for me is an early bedtime. that way I don't mind rising early.

But when your babies are very little, it can be hard to get it done, consistently. It is important that you do something like this, as your family does benefit from your health, fitness and happiness...very much!

Yanicka1

I think they give you a big slice of guilt the minute they put that little bundle of joy.

To an extend, working out is selfish..... but if it make you a better mom and wife the investment is absolutely worth it.

corinneselene

Focusing on yourself sometimes will help you be a better mother. Plus, if you are living a healthy lifestyle, you will be a wonderful role model for your children!

OnionMomma

You have to take care of you to take care of them.

It's OK to feel guilty but you do need to spend the time taking care of yourself. My son was born with a lot of "issues" as we like to say. I devoted 5 years to getting him healthy but it cost my body alot.

I just got to the point where I needed to spend the time taking care of me and not feel guilty about it.

yourenotmine

Hell, I feel guilty going to the gym because my *pets* have been home alone all day, so I can imagine that ALL mommies must feel that way to some extent. Just keep doing the best you can, and remember that taking care of you means being a better mom for them.

drgndancer

Have you ever flown on a plane? Unrelated question I know, but stay with me here. During the safety briefing on airplane flights they talk about what to do when the cabin depressurizes. Oxygen masks will drop from the ceiling and you should make sure to secure your own before assisting kids or other people who need help. The reason for this is simple. If you try to get your kids taken care of before you take care of yourself, there's a good chance you'll pass out before you get either mask secure. Which helps no one, not you and not the kid. Conversely, if you take care of yourself first, the kid might be uncomfortable for a time, but you'll both survive.

This is essentially the same deal. By helping yourself you help them.

findingme07

If you don't take care of you, who will?

mcedes02

I enjoy the much needed time away when I get it. yes I fsel a little guilty if I go off by myself. But ultimately I'm doing this for my kids.A couple hrs alone a week helps recharge my sanity