There’s a truth we all soon discover after giving birth: Being a new mom is like joining an exclusive club of sleep-deprived superheroes, juggling changing diapers and feeding times with trying to remember when you last had a shower. 

It’s a wild, wonderful journey, but it doesn’t mean you must say goodbye to your active lifestyle. Yes, you heard it right. Balancing new motherhood with staying active isn’t just an Instagram myth: It’s tough but oh-so doable. Thankfully, this guide is here to help you navigate through your new wellness normal.

Do You Have To Stay Active?

We’re not talking about staying active so you can magically snap back to your pre-baby body. That might be nice if it’s important to you, but staying active post-pregnancy is important for your health. 

Being physically active has a myriad of benefits. It boosts your mood — thank you, endorphins — improves cardiovascular health, strengthens your body, and can even help with postpartum recovery.

Plus, let’s not forget its benefits for your mental health. Exercise is a known stress-reliever that can come in handy when you’re running on two hours of sleep and your little one is having their third meltdown of the day. Just know this: The struggle to balance all of this is perfectly normal and incredibly common. You’re not alone in your wild ride!

So, how do you do it? With some of these helpful tips, of course.

1. Invest in Mom-Friendly Activewear

Dressing for your new role as an active mom goes beyond style — it’s about comfort and functionality. Your needs are different with a newborn than before, so breastfeeding shirts are about to become your new best friend. Imagine you’re out for a walk, your baby gets fussy, and it’s feeding time. You’d want to wear clothing that makes this process easy and stress-free, right?

Breastfeeding shirts are designed with this in mind. They offer convenience, comfort, and style for moms who want to stay active while navigating the world of feeding on demand. Look for ones that are breathable and moisture-wicking. We know how it is: Between breastfeeding and working out, there can be a lot of sweat involved.

Mon-friendly clothing doesn’t stop there. Supportive bras are a must, providing much-needed comfort while breastfeeding and when you’re on the move. 

Plus, we can’t forget about leggings. Opt for flexible, high-waisted ones that provide support and can comfortably house the lingering postpartum belly. Pair these with quality running shoes, and you’ve got a mom uniform that screams, “Ready for anything!”

2. Stick to Baby-Friendly Workout Routines

Now that you’re dressed for success, it’s time to talk about workouts. Some days you might find pockets of free time when the little one is napping, but on other days … well, let’s just say it’s them, you, and the exercise mat. Thankfully, there are plenty of baby-friendly workouts out there!

Ever heard of stroller workouts? These involve a series of lunges, squats, and power walks, all while pushing your baby stroller. It’s a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the fresh air with your little one. Then, there’s baby yoga. Picture you and your baby bonding while you gently stretch and strengthen your body. It’s a win-win!

Remember, finding workouts that suit you and your baby is important. So, explore different routines, have fun with it, and give yourself grace. After all, your body just did an amazing thing!

3. Stay on Top of Nutrition, Especially When Breastfeeding

You’re working out, chasing after a baby, and breastfeeding … you’re essentially a supermom in disguise! And supermoms need super fuel. Focus on a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains to keep your energy levels up and provide the nutrients you and your baby need.

Hydration is also key when you’re leading an active lifestyle and breastfeeding. Always have a water bottle nearby and drink regularly throughout the day. Just think of it as another part of your active mom toolkit.

4. Embrace Scheduling and Time Management

When on earth are you supposed to find time for exercise? Well, it’s all about seizing the moments. Maybe it’s during your baby’s nap time, early in the morning before the rest of the house wakes up, or even turning playtime into workout time. The goal is to blend your active lifestyle seamlessly with your new motherly duties.

Planning is your friend here. Prioritize your health and wellness as a part of your new routine. Whether setting reminders for your workouts or pre-planning your meals, a little organization goes a long way.

The Finish Line

Being an active new mom is possible and a fantastic way to navigate this exciting phase of life. Remember, each journey is unique, so find the rhythm that suits you and your baby. After all, you’re not just any mom — you’re a supermom, ready for anything!

Image:DepositPhotos