You know how your spouse has to make PT a priority, right? But what about you? It’s easy for your own fitness to slip to the bottom of the list when life gets busy, especially with kids, work, and military life constantly shifting. But here’s the thing. Your fitness doesn’t have to come in last place. You can stay active, feel strong, and even enjoy it, no matter where the military sends you.
Embrace the Outdoors: Fitness in Your Backyard (or Base Housing)
Every new duty station brings new opportunities, and that includes ways to stay active. Whether you’re on base or off, the outdoors is your built-in gym. Walk the neighborhood, find local trails, or use that park bench for step-ups and dips. Even a simple set of stairs can give you an awesome cardio boost. It’s about getting creative with what you’ve got. And hey, exploring your new area while you’re at it? Win-win.
If your duty station comes with a killer view—mountains, lakes, beaches—take advantage of it! Hiking, paddleboarding, or joining a local fitness class can give your routine a fresh spark. The key is to adapt and stay excited about what’s around you.
Bodyweight Workouts: No Equipment? No Problem
Who needs a gym? Your body’s all the equipment you need. Simple bodyweight moves like squats, lunges, and push-ups can be done anywhere—in the living room, backyard, or even during nap time. Here’s a quick workout to try when time’s tight:
- 15 squats
- 15 lunges (each leg)
- 10 push-ups
- 30-second plank
Repeat that circuit three to five times. It’s quick, effective, and best of all, you don’t need any equipment. If you’re looking for more intensity, throw in some jump squats or hold each position a little longer. This kind of workout is perfect for the military spouse juggling it all.
Get the Whole Family Involved
Why not turn fitness into family time? Set up an obstacle course in the yard or take a family walk after dinner. It’s a great way to stay active without carving out extra time. Plus, the kids will love burning off their energy. You’re not just staying fit—you’re making memories together.
Fitness Apps: Your Phone Is Your New Gym
Busy days call for quick solutions. Fitness apps can be lifesavers when you’ve only got 10 or 15 minutes. Whether it’s yoga, strength training, or a quick HIIT session, apps like FitOn, Nike Training Club, and Down Dog make it easy to squeeze in a workout, even if you’re waiting for your household goods to arrive.
Pick a goal—three workouts a week—and stick to it. You’ll feel great knowing you’re prioritizing yourself, even with the chaos of military life.
Small Steps Add Up
You don’t need hours of gym time to see results. Take a morning walk around the block, do some stretches before bed, or fit in a 15-minute workout while dinner’s cooking. The more you move, the more natural it becomes. Set a goal to move at least 30 minutes a day—break it up however works for you.
Stay Flexible and Enjoy the Journey
Military life doesn’t always follow a set schedule, and that’s okay. Flexibility is key, but so is making sure you actually enjoy your fitness routine. Try new things, get outside, and remember—it’s about finding joy in movement, not just checking off a box.
Your fitness matters just as much as your spouse’s PT. By staying active and keeping it fun, you’re taking care of your body and setting the tone for a healthy, happy life—no matter where the military takes you next.