Strength Training for Busy Moms: How to Find Motivation When You’re Just Too Tired
- Rachel
- Feb 27
- 3 min read
I get it, mamma. You’re exhausted. Between juggling kids, work, household responsibilities, and that never-ending to-do list, the last thing you feel like doing is a workout. I've been there too!
You want to lose weight, build strength, and take care of yourself, but the motivation just isn’t there.
But here’s the thing—before we dive into finding motivation, let’s ask the real question: WHY are you too tired to work out?

Why You’re Too Tired to Work Out
Fat loss and weight loss aren’t just about eating well and exercising. If you’re constantly drained, something needs to change. Here are a few things to consider:
Are you doing too much? Sometimes, “doing all the things” leaves no energy for yourself. What can you cut back on?
Are you sleeping enough? No workout routine can outdo exhaustion. If you’re running on fumes, prioritize sleep first.
Are you overwhelmed? Overstimulation and constant busyness take a toll. Simplifying your life can free up energy for things that actually serve you—like strength training.
Find a Workout Routine That Works for You
The best workout routine is the one you can stick to. Strength training is an amazing way to lose weight and build muscle, but it has to be simple, effective, and consistent to keep you motivated.
Here’s what I recommend:
Keep it structured but engaging. Do different workouts each day you lift, but repeat the same routines weekly to track progress. (Example: Hip thrusts on Monday, back squats on Wednesday, etc.)
Progress keeps you motivated. Strength training isn’t boring like endless cardio. Watching yourself get stronger makes you want to keep going!
Change things up every 8-10 weeks. This gives you fresh workouts while still building consistency. (I do this for you in my program!)
Keep workouts short and manageable. 2-3 days a week for about an hour is ideal. If workouts feel too long and grueling, you’ll start dreading them.
Motivation in the Moment
Even with a solid workout plan, there will still be days when you don’t feel like showing up. When that happens, try these:
Think about who’s watching. Your kids see you. Be the example of someone who prioritizes their health. One thing I'm super excited about is the fact that my daughter (age 10) is chomping at the bit to workout with me! You can create a legacy of health for your kids, mamma!
Remind yourself of your goals. How do you want to feel? How will you feel after this workout?
Feelings are real, but they aren’t always true. Just because you feel tired doesn’t mean you can’t work out. Really take the time to figure out if you truly need rest or not.
Parent yourself. Sometimes, you need a little tough love. I've been there too! Just do the first set and see how you feel. I've done this before, and only one time have I actually walked out of the gym after the first set. That day my body truly needed some R&R-and I gave it what it needed!
Give yourself grace when needed. But be honest—are you resting because your body truly needs it, or are you using it as an excuse?
You Are Not Alone
Hear me when I say this: You are strong—not just physically, but in the choices you make every day.
You don’t have to do everything; you have a choice in how you spend your time and energy. If you want support, accountability, and a community of women who get it, join my free Facebook group, I'd love to connect with you there!
Action Step:
Take a moment and ask yourself: WHY am I so tired? Once you identify the root cause, you can start making changes that help you show up for yourself—and that’s where the real transformation begins.
-Rachel
If you're ready to take your progress to the next level and learn how to make strength training a cornerstone of your fitness routine, check out my Fit Lifestyle In A Box program. This 12-week method teaches you how to build a sustainable and healthy lifestyle through strength training, muscle gain, and fat loss. You’ll get all the tools and support you need to succeed.
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