Working Out With a Baby? It Can be Done!

By Donna Stark

Going through a pregnancy is an amazing experience for all involved and having a baby is one of the most incredible things a woman can do. But pregnancy, childbirth, and the weeks afterward can definitely take a toll on the body. It is a widely known fact that exercise is extremely beneficial for everyone, and that is no different for the new mom once the pregnancy is over. In fact, it can be argued that exercise is even more important, in both the physical and mental sense, after Mom and Baby get home. This simple act of working out, even if it's for only one hour a week, can have such a positive impact that its effects can be felt throughout the entire family circle.

Getting Back into Shape

Most women are excited to get back to their fitness routine once they recover from their pregnancy, but often find that it is hard to fit in exercise. Having a newborn in the house means sleep is hard to come by, schedules are difficult to stick to, and plans are dependent on the mood of the little one. It's important not to quit though! So if you find yourself wanting to exercise but are having a hard time fitting it in, don't lose your motivation! Here are some tips on how to get back into your fitness routine.

• Walk - Walking is a great way to fit in some exercise while getting the both of you outdoors. Babies love stroller rides and you will love feeling the warmth of the sun on your face. So grab your little one and start counting those steps!
• Enlist a friend - There is nothing better than to work out with a friend. In addition to holding you accountable, they are also the one person that will actually listen to all of your baby stories. Go ahead ... brag away while on that treadmill!
• Keep it simple - The sheer unpredictability of having a baby complicates everything, so keep your workouts simple. Don't plan on the impossible and then rely on hope that the baby will cooperate. Be realistic with the amount of time you have, the equipment you need, and the location you want to work out in.
• Keep a "Plan B" - There is a good chance that on some days your "Plan A" won't work, so keep some other options available. Choose some exercises you can do in the backyard or have some online videos already picked out.

The Great Motivator

Remember, the impact that exercise can have on both your physical and mental health at this time is significant. It's a great way to lift your mood, reduce your stress, and get your body back to its pre-pregnancy shape. It can also help to regulate your cravings, improve your sleep, and boost your immune system. But the most important part of getting back into shape as soon as you can is to prepare yourself for all of the chasing that's going to happen once your little one learns how to walk! Be ready. It's going to happen soon!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Chino Hills, Calif.