Postpartum Fitness Series - Getting Started

Now you've set your goal, and you have it written down somewhere that you'll see every day. So how do you get started?

Choose an Exercise

My starting point.

No matter what you were doing before pregnancy, you probably need to start off a little slower than where you were and work up. If you weren't exercising at all before having a baby, choose a low-intensity exercise or exercise program.

It's always easiest to stick to something you like doing. If you hate running, don't make the treadmill part of your exercise plan. Do something that works with your current limitations, allowing you to modify as you get stronger. This is probably not the time to start a heavy weight-lifting regimen.

Usually having some balance between working out at home and outside or at a gym works best for moms. The baby may get sick, or it's flu season and you don't want to leave him in child care. Maybe your favorite class is only offered during naptime. Gyms are great to get a break, but having an at-home option is an excellent back-up, and increases your chances of meeting your goal because it leaves you with no excuses. 

Invest in Yourself
You deserve to invest in yourself and your health, so don't be afraid to put some money toward meeting your goal. Buy a quality fitness program (of course I have suggestions), buy equipment such as light weights or a Pilates ball, get a gym membership, even hire a trainer for a short time, or some combination. Spending even a little money shores up your commitment to achieving your goal and gives you some incentive for using your DVDs or your membership.

Plus, you're worth every penny.

Make a Schedule
Now that you know what exercises you want to and have your equipment or membership, make a schedule. Are you going to work out 3 days a week for 45 minutes? Or maybe go for 5 days a week for 30 minutes? Whatever it is, write it down.

Find Support
Being a new mom, especially if you choose not to return to work, can make you feel isolated at times. Having support, whether from family, friends, an online group, a group at the gym, makes a huge difference. Make sure you share your goal with your family and your plan, so they can help you find the time or encourage you to do your workout when you really want to take a nap.

We all need support, especially now, so seek out others who will encourage you and inspire you to keep going. If you need some advice or want to get connected to a group, email me or find me on Facebook. I'll help get you connected with others on a similar journey.

Next time we'll talk about getting your nutrition in line with your plan.