Being a mom is probably one of the most fulfilling things in the world, but even with a toddler running around, you need to have some me time that you’ll dedicate to yourself. Staying fit as a busy mom might seem difficult at first, but with some time-management, you also can look good and have time for your kids at the same time. Here are some essentials on how to achieve your body goals and still spend some quality time with your family:

1. Be organized

Managing your time while having kids should be an Olympic discipline, no kidding. Since you’re probably too busy to fit exercise into your schedule, the best option is to manage your time carefully. Planning your day ahead can be very useful, so get yourself a daily planner notebook or find a to-do-list app. That way, you can know when you have some time off to spend on working out. Instead of being stressed, make sure your day is planned, so you’ll be able to exercise without feeling stressed. If you’re someone who likes to be more spontaneous, you don’t need to plan everything in advance, but at least make sure you have the most important tasks written down. That’s how you can keep track of everything you’ve done. Try to find at least 30 minutes during the day when you can work out.

2. Remember that movement also counts

If you don’t have enough time or money to go to the gym, remember that any type of body movement is considered exercise. Running around your kids still burns calories, and carrying your toddler around can help you tone your arms. Don’t feel overwhelmed if you can’t afford to go to the gym, try walking instead of driving, playing rough-and-tumble with kids and spending time outdoors as much as you can. Kids love being physically active, so going for a swim is a great way to have fun with your children and also stay fit. In some countries, such as Australia, women work out more than men, and being a mother should never stop you from staying in shape. A lot of women use motherhood as an excuse, instead of finding a way to do both.

3. Ask for help

Many mothers feel like they have to do everything by themselves, instead of admitting that asking for help is normal. Even if you’re not one of them, if you think that your family and work duties are stopping you from staying fit, then maybe you should consider asking someone to give you a hand. That can be your partner, friend or a babysitter. There’s nothing wrong with going away for an hour and spending time on your physical well-being. It’s no longer that difficult to get affordable activity clothes. For example, finding comfortable gym wear in Australia has never been easier, and with some effort, you can look gorgeous and feel fit while raising your little ones at the same time!

4. Do it at home

For some, working out at home might feel normal, but others like to leave the house. If you find going to and from the gym time-consuming, then you might want to consider exercising at home. It can be convenient for busy moms like you, since that way you can be more flexible. Whether you prefer Pilates or a treadmill, working out at home will give you all the privacy and you can also watch the kids. Even better, bribe them with a cartoon marathon, so you can work out in peace. Home exercising can have many benefits, so if you’re still uncertain, there’s no better place to start than your own home! You can even take breaks to go and check on your children. Home workouts are convenient for working moms because they cost next to nothing and you can do them whenever you want.

So, staying fit isn’t something you should live and breathe, especially if you have children demanding your attention, but exercising occasionally is definitely recommended. Use every chance to move your body. That also includes dancing with your kids to the music you love the most!