Introducing Urban Mom Fitness

Hello urban moms!  My name is Susan and I am a mom of 3 boys.  I am a Can-Fit-Pro Certified Personal Trainer and run my own personal training business in Toronto called Pursuit Personal Training which specializes in customized training programs for busy moms. I have always loved sports and since having my kids I have raced in seven marathons including the 2003 Boston Marathon and the 2004 New York City Marathon.  I take a holistic approach to training, building relationships with my clients and using humour and motivational strategies to help them to reach for and achieve their fitness goals.

Lately I have been hearing from clients that they are investing in their health now to remain healthy and energetic as they get older.  Also, moms are often older these days when they have their children and are keeping or getting fit in order to have the energy to keep up with their kids.  Getting to know my clients well helps me to better understand what will motivate them specifically so I can build programs to suit each personality and individual approach to fitness.  It is also important to understand that physical fitness is only part of a happier, healthier self!

So, if you’re thinking about investing in your health and fitness, check out some of my suggestions below.  And email me at email@urbanmoms.ca or comment below if you have any questions!

The Top 10 (OK, 12 because I couldn’t pick just 10) Things Busy Moms Can Do to Feel Mahvelous!

1. Stay hydrated.  Limit your coffee to one in the morning  Everywhere you go, bring a water bottle.  Drink from it every chance you get.  Stash it in your stroller, carry it, keep it in your bag.  You might be peeing all day, but your body will thank you.
2. Keep moving every chance you get.  If you have a choice, ditch the car and walk.  Or hop on your bike.  Going to the mall?  Park as far away as you can.  Take the stairs. 
3. Every little bit helps.  Waiting in line at the grocery store?  As you exhale, do some core contractions.  Hold for 20—30 seconds.  Repeat 4 times.  Just as good as crunches!
4. Schedule “me” time.  Set aside workout time in your schedule as you would any other appointment. You are important too.
5. Mornings are always best.  Okay, so sometimes you are actually asleep during your morning run!  But as the day goes on, you’ll always find a reason to NOT workout.
6. Who needs a gym?!  Not only are gyms expensive but who has the time???  Some of the most effective exercises are body weight exercises such as push ups, plank and squats that you can do anywhere.
7. Baby steps.  Want to run but not sure where to start?  Start with a brisk walk around the block.  Everyone has to start somewhere!
8. Be kind to your feet.  Get proper running shoes from a specialty store.  It’s worth it.
9. Law of attraction.  Surround yourself with like-minded, positive people.  Be supportive of others, it will come back to you.
10. Reward yourself everyday.  But you have to earn it!   Perhaps a nice soak in the tub or some fresh flowers. My favourite?  A glass of red wine as I make dinner (instead of dessert!)
11. Be fully present.  Make everyday count.  Read a book.  Laugh out loud.  Light a beautiful candle.  Hug your kids.  Be thankful for everyday and you will come to appreciate all your power. 
12. Be a positive role model and live by example.  Show your kids the importance of daily exercise and living a healthy life.  You are worth it … and so are they.

Susan is a Toronto based Personal Trainer and mom to 3 boys.  Her Fitness column will appear monthly on urbanmoms.ca.  Please email questions to Susan at email@urbanmoms.ca or post in the comments below.