Great Escape: Release Mommy Stress Through Exercise

With hectic schedules, moms and dads deserve a break.  How they choose to take the time to relax and unwind is very individual, but for me, I am able to decompress and feel truly revitalized through exercise.  Particularly after such a long winter, the need to stretch, sweat and clear my mind through working out is just what the doctor ordered. 

Yes, chasing a one and three-year-old around all winter, cleaning up a seemingly endless supply of toys, books and crafts, mixing batter, rolling dough, pulling sleds, folding laundry and mending boo boos, all do count for some diminished calories. Yet, the act of concentrated exercise, especially when done by myself and my IPod, really is invigorating. 

The added benefit of choosing exercise to “escape” is that without spending a dime, you will feel even better about yourself in the coming months. 

Whether you are a person who prefers to be outside or you fancy the gym-setting, here are some local spots to consider. Personally, I most enjoy being outdoors. Finding new routes near my house to walk or run is pleasurable for me.  I love the fresh air, the familiar surroundings and the hard pavement under my feet.  My best friend and I love to walk a specific route in Westhampton Beach.

1. Take a Walk

Park somewhere near town, walk down Main St. over Rogers Bridge, along beautiful Dune Rd, over Swordfish Bridge and back to town.  And don't forget to stop for an ice coffee once you’ve finished. This walk is approximately 3.5 miles and a ice coffee is always a well-deserved and special treat.   

2.  Sportime at the Hamptons

Located at 2571 in East Quogue, is a full-service fitness and sport center. It offers regulation-size tennis and volleyball courts, as well as areas for lacrosse, dodgeball, basketball and roller hockey. For more information, call  (631) 653-6767

3. Pilates East

Located at 540 Montauk Highway in East Quogue, offers a variety of Pilates classes. For more information, call (631) 653-6537

4. Hamptons Yoga Healing Arts

Yoga is always a great way to relax.  Hamptons Yoga Healing Arts offers a number of classes. It is located at 8 Moniebogue Lane in Hampton Bays. For more information, call (631) 355 1855.

5.  Planet Fitness

For a gym work-out experience, try out , located at 250 W. Montauk Highway in Hampton Bays. For more information, call (631) 723-3174.