The trick was, I wanted something free (or almost free) that I could do on my schedule, and something that required little coordination or skill. I started with running, but found that I couldn't get more than a few blocks without feeling sick. Plus, I felt kind of foolish, out there with the experienced runners who glided by so effortlessly as I panted to the end of the block. I knew that it would get easier with time, but it wasn't fun and I wasn't motivated. So I thought about it more. What kind of movement do I love? What feels natural? And I realized: walking.

I walk for almost everything in my life, which made it an easy fit. I just increased the speed a few notches, figured out a route that was interesting, and now I'm out of bed and on the pavement two mornings a week. I hope to work up to more outings as my schedule allows, but I find that even those couple of walks a week make me feel looser, more toned, and like I've really grabbed the early part of the day. I get to exercise, reflect, and see my city in a new way. What could be better or more accessible for all of us parents who have little time to ourselves but want to keep in shape?”

Editor’s Note: If you find it challenging to add dedicated walking outings to your week, consider building it into your daily routine; for example, walking instead of driving your kids to school, opting to do errands on foot, or changing up your commute to add in walking stretches. I also have pet-lover friends who attribute their fitness level to their dog walking duties.

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