My name is Denise. I’m a wife, a mother of two, a fitness trainer, and now, I’m a competitive bodybuilder.

Being a mom and trying to balance work, kids, school, training, events, friends, etc., can be quite a challenge.

Every day, I practice strengthening my willpower, but I don’t stress trying to make everything “perfect” because I know that’s not realistic.

Instead, I made a schedule that works, and here’s how you can do it, too.

Plan Every Day, Every Week
I never miss a workout when it’s planned. They say, “Your workouts are like meetings, and a boss does not miss meetings.” So, I make sure to schedule all my workouts and prepare the appropriate meal plan for that particular training day.

Vary Your Workouts
My routine changes every day. Here’s a quick look at what I do:
Monday: group workout, weight training for upper body
Tuesday: group workout, weightlifting, and HIIT training like kickboxing
Wednesday: leg day, which means squats, lunges, calf raises and glute work
Thursday: cardio, abdominal core work, weightlifting
Friday: group workout, or take the day off and have a fun activity with the family
Weekend: swim in the ocean, ride bike trails or go for a run

Have a Morning Routine
I’m usually up by 3:45 a.m. because of my job. While in bed, I stretch and stare out the window, and then I convince myself that I can do better than yesterday. Then I work out, have breakfast, prep food for the day and pack it in my bag. Afterward, I sit and have coffee with my wonderful husband and talk about whatever comes to mind. Then I read a book to my children to wake them up while my husband irons their clothes. Otherwise, I’ll jump into their beds and snuggle with them for a bit – that’s one of my favorite things to do!

Be Willing to Improvise
Some days I can’t make it to the gym, but I still make a workout happen. I can either work out in my garage, at the beach, at my son’s football practice, or while I’m coaching my daughter’s softball team – fitness can happen everywhere and anywhere!

Make Bedtime a Priority
My goal is to be in bed by 8:00 p.m., but that depends on the day. If we get home late from practice, my husband will help me get the kids ready for bed so I can be asleep by 10:00 p.m. Getting sleep is very important when I’m training. Not only does it improve my mind and my ability to focus, but my workouts are stronger and maintained at a higher intensity for longer durations.

Schedule a Day Off
I enjoy my days off! I usually take them on Fridays or Sundays, so I can recharge, do something fun like yoga with friends, or visit the batting cages with my awesome family. I just do whatever it is that makes me happy!

 

 

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