How I Make Time for Exercise as a Mom (Without Losing My Sanity)

Before becoming a mom, I always imagined I’d have this perfect routine—wake up early, go for a run, have a healthy breakfast, and start my day feeling refreshed. But the reality? I was lucky if I had time to drink my (Greek) coffee while it was still hot.

For the longest time, I told myself there just wasn’t enough time to work out. Between work, chasing toddlers, and keeping up with everything else, how could I possibly squeeze in exercise? But then I realized—if I kept waiting for the “perfect time,” it was never going to happen.

So, I decided to make time.

The 5:45 AM Routine That Changed Everything

Three days a week, I wake up at 5:45 AM—before the chaos of the day begins. While the house is still quiet, I do a quick 20-minute workout. Nothing fancy—just something that gets my body moving and my energy up.

It’s not just about the workout. It’s about having those precious few moments to myself before my girls wake up. In that time, I:
✔ Get my workout in (so I don’t have to think about it later)
✔ Eat a real breakfast (not just toddler leftovers)
✔ Start my day feeling accomplished and energized

And let me tell you—this tiny shift has made a world of difference in how I feel, both physically and mentally.

How to Fit in Exercise When You Have No Time

If waking up early isn’t your thing, that’s okay! Here are a few other ways I’ve learned to sneak in exercise as a busy mom:

1️⃣ Turn playtime into a workout – Dance parties, races around the house, or even squats while holding my toddler. It all counts!
2️⃣ Stroller walks – A great way to get fresh air and movement in while keeping the kids entertained.
3️⃣ Short workouts = better than nothing – Even just 10 minutes of movement makes a difference.
4️⃣ Make it a family activity – Kids love to copy what we do. I’ll do yoga, and my toddler will try to follow along (kind of).
5️⃣ Be flexible – Some days, it won’t happen, and that’s okay. Progress over perfection.

You Deserve to Take Care of Yourself, Too

I used to feel guilty for taking time for myself. But then I realized—taking care of me means I can show up better for them.

If you’re struggling to find time for exercise, start small. Even if it’s just a few minutes a day, it adds up. And more importantly—you deserve it.