Having a baby is one of the most challenging and gruelling periods of your life. You are suddenly left in charge of this tiny little human, whom you now must provide for while feeling like you’ve just been hit by a bus. And, don’t even get me started on the hormones!
Exercise may be the last thing on your mind, but safely and carefully reintroducing a workout regime, once you feel ready to, will, of course, not only help you to lose any baby weight you might have gained but can also help with your mental health and well-being.
Struggling to understand how on earth you’re going to be able to work out at home with a baby? Read on for some of our top tips!
Start by finding some motivation
Losing weight doesn’t have to be the only reason you want to work out. Working up a sweat is great for your heart health and your physical and mental well-being. As it is a proven fact that exercising releases endorphins, exercising also helps boost your immune system; leaving you feeling less stressed whilst also helping improve symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Find whatever it is that motivates you and keep that in mind. It will give you a purpose and encourage you to keep going when you feel like giving up.
Utilise nap time
All babies ever do is eat and sleep right? Well… most of them do! Make the most of your baby’s nap time by using this window to do your workout. Got a clingy baby who won’t sleep unless they’re on you? Pop them in a baby carrier and get out for a long walk. Invest in a quality newborn carrier, it’s a lifesaver for hands-free snuggles while you take a stroll or tackle some chores around the house. Not only will you get your exercise in, but the rhythmic movement will help your baby to drop off, so it’s a win-win!
Get a workout partner
Get in touch with your fellow mum friends and organise a workout that you can do together – with or without a baby! Perhaps you could meet up in the evening when the baby is with Dad and go for a gentle jog or? Or why not meet up in the park during the day and have a brisk jog with the strollers? Not only will you get your blood pumping, but you’ll get that much-needed social time too.
Make recovery training part of your workout routine
Working out at home isn’t just about the physical training. Make sure you let your muscles fully recuperate by making recovery training part of your workout routine. You can visit humantouch.com to find a great range of massage chairs to be used in the home.
Using a massage gun on your muscles is a great way to get blood flowing and it reduces the likelihood of next day soreness. The last thing you want is to struggle to pick up your baby from his cot the next day thanks to DOMS (Delayed onset muscle soreness)!
Whether you want to lose weight, boost your mental health, or simply build your fitness back up after your pregnancy, working out is a great way to leave you feeling great!
I think the most important thing is having a very supportive partner, as I try to be…