4 Reasons Gyms With Childcare Are a Parenting Necessity

Being a stay-at-home mom can be very rewarding, but it’s also extremely hard. My typical workday starts at 6 a.m. and regularly goes until 7:30 or 8 p.m. The only break I get is during nap time, which can be very inconsistent. Needless to say, I definitely need some “me” time during the day — and working out while my son goes to the gym childcare has been my saving grace! Here is why joining a gym with childcare has been one of the best decisions I’ve made as a parent:

It motivates me to work out.

While I like to be active, I have always struggled with keeping a consistent workout routine. Knowing that I only get a break from my son if I work out gives me all the motivation I need to hit the gym. I’m in better shape now than I’ve been in a long time, and working out has fit seamlessly into my weekly schedule.

I can take an uninterrupted shower.

I am a little ashamed to admit that showering has become a little too inconsistent since I’ve become a mom. Some days I just can’t find the time to fit in a shower, and when I do, I’m often interrupted by a crying toddler. I love the days I go to the gym because I know I’ll have time to wash my hair, shave, and maybe even apply a little makeup. Some days I even cut my workout short so I can spend some extra time in the locker room.

My son is gaining independence.

Even though I use a babysitter once in a while, there are few times during the week where my son is away from me. I think it’s important for him to learn flexibility and resiliency by being with different caretakers. He is also learning social skills and how to function without me when he goes to the gym’s childcare center.

I have more energy to be a better mom.

Working out makes me energized, relieves my anxiety, and helps me sleep better. All these things make me a better mom, and I have more energy to be present and focus on my son when we’re together. 

If you’re considering joining a gym with childcare I highly recommend it! I go to Healthworks in Cambridge and absolutely love it.

Looking for a gym near you? Here is a list of Boston-area gyms with childcare:

Bodyscape Fitness :: Brookline
Boston Athletic Club :: Boston (South Boston)
btone Fitness :: Chestnut Hill, Lexington, Boston (North End), Waltham, Wellesley
Equinox :: Chestnut Hill, Boston (Back Bay)
Evolve Fitness :: Cambridge and Framingham
Healthworks Fitness Center for Women :: Cambridge, Back Bay, Brookline, Chestnut Hill
Lifetime Fitness :: Chestnut Hill, Burlington, Westwood, Framingham
YMCA :: Various Boston-area locations