Do's & Don'ts for New Moms Returning to Fitness

Firstly, congratulations on your new arrival! Secondly, let’s get down to business… getting fit once you have had a baby is undoubtedly a challenge. But it is one that you can master with the right attitude and the right fitness plans. Below, you will discover the dos and don’ts of getting into fitness as a new mom.


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DO seek motivation – It is important to find different ways to motivate yourself. It is all about what works for you. Some people like to make their phone’s wallpaper a photo of their pre-baby body to give them motivation. Others like to read fitness blogs so that they can gain encouragement from others. There are then those who write motivational messages to themselves on post-it notes and place them around the house. There are so many different ways you can give yourself the encouragement to shed those pounds.


DON'T exercise to exhaustion – You should feel energized as a result of post-natal exercise, as opposed to being exhausted. Caring for a newborn baby is emotionally and physically demanding, and most new moms are running on a combination of caffeine and broken sleep. Your exercise routine should be full of movements that make you feel vibrant and energized. This may mean having rest days or choosing shorter workouts.

DO focus on the positives – It can be frustrating when your body doesn’t seem to do the things that it once did. Before having a baby, you may have found losing weight a breeze, and now it seems like a slog. Rather than feeling down about it, focus on the positives. Work towards feeling a little bit healthier and a little bit stronger every day. Celebrate small improvements – baby steps as they say!

DON'T feel like you have to go to the gym – You can get back into shape without going to the gym. A lot of new moms simply won’t have the time to visit a fitness center. Instead, you can get fit from the comfort of your own home. If you have the space, create a home gym. A weight bench should be at the top of your list of priorities. You can read weight bench reviews to find the best one for you. Contrary to popular belief, weights aren’t just for those looking to get big muscles! More and more women are embracing weight training as an effective way to get fit and toned.

DO mix things up – You may feel pressured to do the same exercise routine that you have always done, but there is no need to. It is important to recognize that your body has changed. You should honor this change and do what makes you feel good, as opposed to overstretching yourself.

DON'T overlook post-natal programs – There are many post-natal programs that can help you to get back on track. These programs are recommended because they help you to get back into exercise in a positive and safe manner. You will learn about exercises that have been designed for your postpartum body, leaving you feeling empowered and confident. 

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