How to motivate yourself to get fit as a parent of a baby or toddler

Are you struggling with postnatal fitness motivation since having your baby? Did you start a class and ended up giving up? Do you have a toddler taking up every minute of your day?

Having a baby or toddler is a demanding task and often your own wellness gets swept to the side. But the important thing is to remember your family can only be healthy if you are too!

Here are some of the reasons you may be struggling to get into fitness and how to get around them:

1. NO TIME! This is a biggie! Having a baby is 24-hour job. The gym might not always be the best answer for you now so pick a workout that is time friendly such as 10 minute HIIT workout or a half an hour Buggy Beat session in the park.

Think of exercising in bite sized chunks when you can fit it in around your little one playing on a mat or playing in the garden for example.
If your baby is in an element of a routine, try to fit it in when your baby is sleeping. It’s important for your well-being to have some time for yourself and fit in exercise so try to prioritize this over any chores which you can leave until later or delegate to someone else. Walking is also great during nap time.

2. IS IT SAFE? You may have been told or feel that you have Diastasis Recti, abdominal separation so you’re concerned about what exercises you can do and what you shouldn’t be doing. Please speak to your doctor about when you should start exercising. Then when it is safe take your time and start with low impact exercise such as walking- as you get stronger you can increase your workouts.

3. Childcare. You may not be in a situation where you have family locally, a partner who works more flexible hours or childcare options…So the lack of childcare can be a big factor in preventing you from doing any exercise- find classes you can take your baby with you such as BUGGY BEAT!

4. Not having accountability. If you’re not someone who has exercised in the past or enjoyed exercising, not having anyone to push you can mean your motivation lacks. Find a Buggy Beat coach that motivates you to come every week and workout. How about finding a fitness buddy you can connect with and who will hold you accountable by checking in with you to see if you’re doing your exercises. It may be someone who’s in the same situation as you and you can motivate and spur each other on!

We hope you found these ideas helpful!