How even a busy North West London mum can reach her fitness goals

Now, Anna and I are both working mums – so time is a commodity. This means we are constantly desperately looking for ways to magically extend the clock. And after years of trial and error the only way we know to keep fit whilst raising our family is through the rather unglamorous activity of planning.

Planning

One day a week we sit and plan all our meals, from breakfast to dinner. After this we can then write that all important shopping list making sure our fridge is stocked with everything we will need during the week. Now, we know there are plenty of healthy recipes online that include some unfamiliar ingredients – the likes of chia seeds and almond flour. And we also know that our clients are North West London based and so going to fancy health food stores in town is pretty unrealistic. However, the food that Anna and I cook is all simple and healthy, no fad ingredients. Not only that, but on your doorstop there is an array of spectacular food offerings that mean you can stay healthy even in Golders.

Shopping

Check out the healthy food sections in Kosher Kingdom (Golders Green,) Tapuach (Hendon) as well as the recently opened Yourhealthstore on Hamilton Road in Golders Green that sells exclusively Kosher, healthy food. Well worth a look. Also Holland and Barrett in Brent Cross Shopping centre has a huge range of kosher and vegetarian health food.  We have also found that online shopping has changed our lives – we buy all our fruit and vegetables online. Which not only saves any awkward balancing act but, more importantly, time as we grapple with rotas, work and our various familial obligations.

Cooking

All the meals we make are quick and easy, none of this sprig of rosemary or dash of oregano nonsense. We make food that both our kids and we can enjoy without spending hours by the stove.

The oven is your friend and some quick chopping or dicing (or Tesco, Brent Cross has a wonderful array of chopped veg, all of which is Kosher) can see a meal cooked whilst you get on with other activities.

For some inspiration check out our recipe section. However, some tricks we use include blending up veggies in a nutribullet, which can then be carefully concealed in a lovely pasta sauce.  The same can be said for burgers which can easily hide an assortment of lovely vegetables. Using chickpea, beans or beetroot as a base – even mixed with a little quinoa or brown rice – can have you a tasty, healthy burger in a New York minute.  Happy mum, happy kids.

Portion control

For those of you who cook in advance and freeze – freezing food in portions can be immensely helpful. It means that you simply cannot have seconds, a prospect so tempting often we find ourselves summoning all our will power to resist. For lunches this can also be particularly beneficial, we find that packing Tupperware in advance means you absolutely cannot pick or over serve. You may also feel pretty smug about yourself – and we say own it. We also know a number of mums who squirt fairy liquid over their kids’ leftovers, which is a mightily helpful tool.

We do honestly believe that with a little planning any mum (or dad!) can maintain a healthy lifestyle. Not just for them, but also for their kids. Hopefully you have enjoyed our secret tips but if you have any more questions drop us an email on info@ace-lifestyle.co.uk. Also, you will find that our nutrition plan will help you reach your goals and there is a £20 discount until the end of the month. Click here for more information.