How To Stay Active As A New Mom
First steps towards being an active mom
My mom always say: Words can teach but examples build interest! (in lithuanian it sounds like this “žodžiai pamoko, pavyzdžiai patraukia”). So how do we build that interest in exercise and active lifestyle in our kids?
By being active ourselves!
Make your health a priority
Caring for yourself is not selfish! Make your health and fitness a priority so you are fit to take care of your kids. It is not about “getting your body back” ( I could ramble a lot how negative and wrong that phrase is but I will leave it for next time!) It is about being able to lift, bend over, turn and move through your day without pain!
Find time without actually having time
But I can’t even find time to take a shower with my new baby, how am I supposed to have time to exercise? My answer is —> movement snacking. Any movement is better than nothing! Learn 2-3 movements that can benefit your mobility and/or stability and try to do it whenever you are playing with the baby. And if you need ideas, check out the video below!
Is your baby a good sleeper? Use that nap time at least twice a week to do 20-30 min workout. It will help you strengthen your muscles and eventually will give you more energy!
Do you have “a village” to utilize? Can your partner, mother or sister whatch your kids while you make a short trip to the gym? Ask them!
Do it for your own good health so you are stronger and pain free, so you are able to lift your baby without saying “ouch ouch ouch” 🤭🫣
Invest in personal trainer
No, this is not me advertising myself. Any trainer that works for you!
It is easier if you have someone helping you! And there are many options to choose from that won’t break the bank. But having someone guiding you and keeping you accountable can actually make a big diference! Sudenly instead of saying “maybe I will find time to move today” you know you are commited to the session at 5pm and have to make things work!
Involve your family
If your kids are moving around already- train with them! Tickle them as you squat down, try to catch them as you are lunging around, let them minic you!
Try to do some activities like cycling or hiking even if it is for 30min on a weekend!
Find a family friendly gym where you can take your kids with you! I know it’s not the easiest thing to do with chain gyms, but ask your local small business type of gyms!
Have a dedicated exercise area in your house
It can be a corner or a whole room, but all it takes is a mat on the floor and maybe a fun pillow obstacle course for the little ones! While you do your push ups they can run around and jump over and play their own games.
All it takes is taking the first few steps! Like your baby got adjusted to their new bed time routine you can get adjusted to your new active lifestyle!
Look for activities the whole family can enjoy!
Walking, roller blading, rock climbing, swimming, hiking, volunteering in the national park, cycling, skiing, running… I am sure there is something that the whole family can do together no matter what the budget is! Try a few different things and stick to it, build a habit! Every Sunday afternoon we will do “this” for 4 weeks in a row! Or maybe, every weekend we will try a new activity? Make it a fun game? Where will we go next?
Do not hesitate to get in touch
We are here to help you. As a new mom and a trainer I really know that “it’s easy for you to say” but it’s actually really hard to do sometimes! Get in touch if you feel like you need a consultation and let us guide you towards having an active healthy household!