📝 The Parent’s Paradox: Making Time for Your Health Amidst Youth Sports
By Warren Bowman– Coach, Owner, & Dad at CrossFit Pell City
“I don’t have time. I’m too busy with my kids and [insert sport here].”
I’ve heard this more times than I can count. And to be honest—I’ve said it myself.
As parents, we spend hours every week driving our kids to practices, sitting through games, and supporting their athletic dreams. And we love it. Watching them grow, hustle, and chase big goals? It’s one of the best parts of being a parent.
But somewhere in that hustle, we start putting ourselves last.
Our own health becomes optional.
We sit on the sidelines—cheering for them, but slowly fading in our own wellness journey.
What If You Didn’t Have to Choose?
Here’s something to think about: what if you stopped separating their fitness from your fitness?
What if you stopped saying “one day” and started choosing “today”?
Your kids are watching you more than they’re listening to you. When they see you prioritize your health—when they watch you put in the work just like they do—they learn that taking care of yourself is part of life, not a luxury.
You don’t have to be an athlete to set an example. You just have to show up.
Three Hours. That’s It.
Let’s talk numbers for a second.
You don’t need 10 hours a week or a perfect schedule.
You need three hours.
That’s just 1.8% of your entire week.
Three hours a week of consistent, intentional movement has been shown to:
- Lower your risk of heart disease
- Improve your mood and reduce symptoms of depression
- Support healthy weight management
- Reduce your risk of diabetes and certain cancers
- Improve energy, focus, and sleep
- Increase your longevity
Read that again.
Just three hours.
And it doesn’t have to be fancy or extreme. At CrossFit Pell City, we’ll guide you through those three hours with purpose and progress.
Let’s Be Honest
If you’re pouring everything into your child’s sport—but not even giving 2% of your week to your own well-being—something has to change.
No, you’re not trying to become an elite athlete. (They spend up to 33% of their time training!)
But even at 1.8%, the return on investment for your health is massive.
This isn’t about guilt. This is about recognizing that you matter too.
The Shift Starts Here
So the next time you say, “I don’t have time,” try this instead:
👉 “I’m making time—for me, for them, for our future.”
Because when you prioritize your health, everything else gets better.
Your energy. Your mood. Your ability to be present. Your longevity.
You don’t have to sacrifice your health for your family.
In fact, taking care of yourself might be the best way to show up for them long term.
Let’s reclaim that 1.8%—together.
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Ready to take that first step?
Come see us at CrossFit Pell City. We’ll help you make the most of every minute.