I have always been an avid exerciser and healthy eater. It is a passion, hobby, and just plain makes me feel good. After the birth of my daughter, the three weeks I stayed away from the gym were so hard for me because I count on those endorphins from getting my heart rate up to make me the happiest mommy that I can be! So not exercising combined with no sleep equals a miserable me.
Once I started getting back into my routine I was so excited to feel like “me” again. However, I decided I needed to get out and try something new, challenge my body, as well as my social skills. So, I joined a local running club.
I was pretty much scared to death the first time I went last week. Would I be fast enough? Would I have anything to talk to the other women about? Would my 12 week old baby take a bottle from my dad and go to bed ok? Should I pump as soon as I got home? The questions were endless in my head, and I almost had myself convinced it was more of a hassle to go. Sometimes I feel like being a SAHM has made me lose all sense of social skills, and to put myself into a new group of people was pretty terrifying to me. Thank goodness my friend was picking me up – no excuses!
It ended up being such a good decision! Not only was I leaving my house after 4 pm (this rarely happens!) alone, but I was doing something that I love, and was getting to meet some amazing women. All the women in the group are moms, hence the name of the group, Moms in Motion. We have a great coach who leads the workout, and I am so excited to go back this week. My husband travels a lot, so my parents are being fantastic and are available to put the babies to bed for me so that I can have this “me time”.
There is a part of me that feels guilty for leaving the kids one night a week, and not doing my “job” of caring for them 24/7. But then I think back to 10 weeks ago and how miserable I was being inactive, and I know this is something I deserve, will make me happy, and therefore make me a better mother to my children. Oh, and there is talk of a triathlon in my future. Stay tuned!
Moms in Motion is a national group for moms who care about fitness, camaraderie and improving their quality of life. If you want to check out local franchises in your area, take a look at the website and get moving! You won’t regret it!
Kate
May 15, 2010Oh, Monica, I can SO relate to the “Is it even worth it?” question. Sometimes getting child care, making sure everything is taken care of and the worrying make it hard to get out the door alone. I’m so glad you joined the running group and that you like it!
Amy
May 15, 2010Congratulations to you in taking a well-deserved break! Enjoy!
Emilie
May 15, 2010My husband is the same way. He gets the itch if it has been more than a day or two since a run. While he likes his longer runs, even if he can get 3-5 miles in he is happy! I know he is addicted to that runners high.
Glad you are taking the time out for you. Now if I could only convince myself that I should do that as well for running instead of spending way too much time online!
Alicia
May 16, 2010Good for you. Sounds like something I might enjoy too.