Working in the Workouts: More cross-training ideas

Each week, Debbie will share her goals, challenges, successes and tips on how to fit in fitness when caring for a rambunctious toddler.

A few weeks ago, I asked readers for some ideas on how to add more variety to my outdoor routine, which consisted of only walking on the street or hiking / running the trails near my house.

I received some helpful comments and suggestions. Adding jumping jacks and using playground equipment while walking and running reminded me that there is actually a fitness trail in my town. We have a lovely paved track with stations along the way for different kinds of interval training, like monkey bars, sit-ups, pull-ups and the like. Plus, Owen loves to ride his tricycle around the track. Sounds like a perfect outing for at least once a week.

Another reader mentioned an intriguing concept you can read more about at Flexibility for Athletes. Basically, it is a way to use your breathing to enhance your workouts, helping you to get more out of your workouts in a shorter period of time. I'm not quite there yet, but it may be something I check out when I am ready to fine tune my workouts. At this point, I am lucky if I can get out the door!

As I was basking in the sun at my parents' pool last weekend, it occurred to me that I could be swimming in it instead of floating on a raft. Who would have thought? I am actually excited about the idea of using the pool for good, not evil, and since my parents live in town, it should be easy for Owen and I to make a visit there at least once a week.

Last fall, we replaced our rotting front walkway. It is stunning, if I do say so myself, but unfortunately, all of the overgrown plants had to go with it. Our landscaping is a bit minimalistic at best. Since gardening is excellent exercise, and since we need plants badly, I thought I'd try to plant something every week, and also weed the existing garden beds. These are things I can do easily while Owen plays out in the yard, and it makes my yard and my body happy. Add in the happy kid and it is a winner activity all around.

I am excited about the prospect of all of my new cross training ideas. Do you have any favorites you've been holding out on me?

And now for my monthly check-in with you all . . . not a thing has changed since last month! I suppose it is a good thing that no body parts measure larger than last month, but I was hoping for some progress (aren't we all!). Maybe I should stop eating chocolate cookies while weight training?