Avoiding the WAHM Weight Gain

It happens to the best of us. A few months after starting to work from home we step on the bathroom scale and discover that we’ve gained 10 pounds. How did that happen? Sitting in front of the computer can add pounds quicker than we’d think. The good news is that, with a little initiative and self-control, you can not only prevent more weight from creeping on, and you can get rid of your excess weight altogether.

Let’s start by looking at what caused the weight gain and expansion of your mid-section in the first place. For most of us, the reasons are two-fold: Not enough exercise and easy access to snacks. Think about it… when you worked outside the home, you spent quite a bit of time and energy getting ready in the morning. You walked to your car, from the car to your office plus all the walking around in the office all day. You may even have taken a walk on your lunch break or used the office gym. Other than the snack machine in the break room you were also pretty safe from food temptations. Now that you’re home, you’re walking from the bedroom straight to your desk, which is just a few steps away from your pantry and fridge. As if that wasn’t bad enough the kids are asking for snacks every hour or two. The combination of less exercise and more snacks can quickly add up to weight gain.

Here are some tips to help you avoid the WAHM weight gain cycle:

Do whatever it takes to get some regular exercise. Keep a treadmill next to your desk and make it a habit to walk or run on it for at least a few minutes for every hour you sit at your desk. Get together with a friend 3 or more times a day to go for a long walk. Chase the kids around the yard. Join a gym and take a few step or spinning classes. Join a sports team like your local softball league to train and play with a few times a week. Take the family out for a bike ride or a nature hike on the weekend.

Watch what you are eating too. Keep a food journal for a few days. It can be a real eye opener especially when it comes to all those little snacks you munch on all day long. Avoid eating every time the kids ask for a snack. They need the extra food throughout the day, but you often don’t. Keep a glass of cold water close by instead. Other than that, follow a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and some lean meat and fish.

By watching what and how much you eat as well as making sure you get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, you will be well on your way to not only avoid the WAHM weight gain, but also to a healthier, leaner and more energized you.

Work at Home Mom

Avoiding the WAHM Weight Gain

Related Articles