When you first start working out it can be hard to have people watch you. This is the very reason why many people, especially women, avoid gyms. Most people don’t enjoy being stared at when they are trying to master a new skill. So you would think that exercising at home would save you from prying eyes, right? … Not according to my sister who came up for air after an asana with my online fitness studio only to find three kids laughing and a husband staring rather too appreciatively.
If you don’t want a gallery of hecklers watching you while you workout at home, then you need to create some boundaries that benefit your physical health without ruining your family’s mental health. The worst thing you can say to your personal fitness fans is “don’t watch me while I exercise” or “don’t look at me, I’m fat!” That sends children a horrible message, and that’s counter-productive to establishing a holistic home life. Instead say something like, “Okay everybody, Mom/Dad is getting ready to workout. Feel free to join me or find something else to do.”
And don’t you dare let yourself feel guilty for creating a space for yourself, because you are also teaching manners and respect. The lookie-loos need to remember that it’s not polite to rubberneck whilst mother does downward dog. So create a space for yourself, and respect others when they crave that space.
Discussion: What kind of ideas do you have for people who work out at home and want some privacy?
Great point Beth… That's one of the reasons I do think it's best to get out of the house. Your workout time is not just about the workout… it's YOUR time. Get away and get some release. Thanks for sharing.
I work out at home because it is convenient and I don't have to worry about being judged by those who are in better shape than me. By the way, your new site is gorgeous!
Ditto what Lisa said about your new site!! LOVE it.
I've done some wild looking workouts at home, but my kids are teenagers and everything I do seems odd or funny to them. 🙂
Great point! I really don't like the gym for that reason and have found it very hard to workout at home bc the daughters want in on the action – making it very difficult! Hopefully I can find some balance soon!
love the site – New follower checking out & following your blog! Looking forward to what else comes along!
Would love it if stopped by my blog when you get a moment!
Bernadette
https://momto2poshlildivas.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/bern425
My daughter (9 years old) LOVES to workout with me! She’s also active in karate, jazzercise, and cheerleading, so she frequently teaches me new moves. It used to frustrate me, but when I let go of my agenda and expectations and actually interacted with her and heard her ideas, we started to have a lot of fun working out together.