There was a time when I proudly called myself a gym rat. Back when I had just one child, life was simpler. I’d drop her off at daycare, head to the gym, and then get home in time to start my shift. That rhythm worked beautifully.
Fast forward to life as a mom of two, and things look a lot different. These days, I find myself more in the background, taking care of everyone else while my own self-care slips further away. The rising cost of daycare also made it clear that sending my little one there just so I could work out wasn’t the best financial choice for our family, especially since I work from home and have some flexibility.
The Dilemma: How Do I Work Out With a Baby?
I did my research on gyms with childcare, but most were way out of my budget. Still determined to move, I bought a used treadmill on Facebook Marketplace. While it was helpful, I quickly realized I missed the energy and “zen” I felt in the gym. Running in the same spot every day was just… boring.
The Game-Changer: Hiking Trails 🌿
One day, while taking my kids to the playground, I noticed the hiking trail nearby. On a whim, I decided to walk around it. Mind. Blown. 🤯 Hiking trails have since become my new favorite workout spots.
Now I aim for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on my schedule. In that time, I easily get 5,000–8,000 steps. The best part? It checks all the boxes:
✅ Free
✅ Accessible
✅ Baby can come along in the stroller
✅ Fresh air and change of scenery
✅ A real mental reset
I’ve started alternating between different trails just to keep things exciting, and it has been so rewarding both physically and mentally.
My Biggest Takeaway
Sometimes fitness doesn’t look the way it used to. And that’s okay. I may not be the gym rat I once was, but these trails have given me a way to move, recharge, and still balance my life as a mom of two.
And the cherry on top? It’s completely free!
These hiking trail sessions have completely changed the way I look at fitness. I may not be in the gym like I used to, but I’ve found a simple, free, and refreshing way to stay active while keeping my little ones close. Every walk feels like a reset for my mind and body.
Transitioning from a mom of one to being a mom of two comes with its own unique blessings and challenges and I’m just taking it one day at a time.
👉 What about you? Do you have a favorite way to sneak in movement as a busy parent (or just a busy person in general)? Drop your tips in the comments; I’d love to learn from you!
