Staying Active in Leicester: Personal Trainer Advice for Parents in Their 30s and Beyond
As a personal trainer working with busy parents across Leicester, I see firsthand how challenging it can be to juggle career demands, family life, and health. Many of my clients in their 30s and beyond tell me the same thing: they want to stay active, but the day simply gets away from them. The good news is, fitness doesn’t have to mean hours in the gym. With the right approach, you can keep moving, stay strong, and feel energised — even with kids and work in the mix.
Here are my top tips for Leicester parents to keep activity levels high.
1. Make the Most of Leicester’s Green Spaces
You don’t need a fancy gym to stay fit. Knighton park, Victoria Park, and Aylestone meadows are perfect training grounds—see my previous blog on great walks around Leicester. I often encourage parents to turn family outings into mini workouts: brisk walking, jogging with the buggy, or even setting up little fitness circuits while the kids play. It’s a win-win — your children get fresh air while you sneak in valuable exercise.
2. Train in Short, Powerful Bursts
I’m a big believer in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for busy parents. Just 10–15 minutes of squats, push-ups, and lunges at home can raise your heart rate and build strength. Many of my clients fit this in before the school run or after bedtime. Consistency beats perfection every time.
3. Active Commuting Adds Up
If you’re working in or around Leicester city centre, try walking or cycling part of your commute. Even parking a few streets away or getting off the bus a stop earlier makes a difference. These little tweaks really add up to hundreds of extra calories burned each week.
4. Join Family-Friendly Fitness Sessions
Leicester is home to some brilliant family-friendly options, from buggy-fit classes in local parks to parent-and-child yoga. I often recommend these to clients because they make fitness social, fun, and inclusive. Check out local community centres and gyms — many offer trial sessions.
5. Build Movement Into Your Day
Not every workout needs to feel like a workout. Look for ways to be active without blocking out big chunks of time:
Take the stairs instead of the lift.
Dance with your kids in the living room.
Go for a brisk walk during your lunch break through Leicester’s historic streets.
These little habits keep your body moving and your energy levels up.
6. Stay Accountable
One of the biggest struggles I see with parents is staying motivated. That’s where accountability helps. Whether it’s joining a local Leicester fitness group, using a tracking app, or working with a trainer, find something (or someone) that keeps you consistent.
7. Don’t Forget Self-Compassion
This is a message I repeat often: don’t beat yourself up if life gets in the way. Some days, a short walk is all you can manage — and that’s okay. Progress is about showing up regularly, not being perfect.
