After having a baby, the motivation to work out again can be pretty low. Between caring for your new little nugget and recovering from the physical toll pregnancy and birth took on your body, working out probably isn’t at the top of your priority list. That said, exercise can have several impactful benefits for postpartum women. For example, regular exercise can boost energy, promote better sleep, relieve stress, and can even prevent postpartum depression. If you’re interested in receiving these benefits but don’t have the drive to get off the couch, let me help you with these tips on how to get motivated to work out after having a baby.
Set Measurable Performance Goals Rather Than Aesthetic Goals
Setting goals can be a great way to get yourself motivated. However, it’s important to set the right goals to avoid getting discouraged.
Rather than aiming to get back down to your pre-pregnancy physique in a set number of months, try setting measurable performance goals instead. Performance goals may include working out for a specified amount of time several days a week or trying to go on a run – or even a walk – for a given distance without stopping.
Once you accomplish your goal, you can start to gradually increase the level of difficulty. Make sure to keep track of your progress. Being able to look back and see how your fitness has improved will surely serve as positive encouragement.
By focusing on improving your performance, you’ll be more likely to stick with your workout routine even if you don’t see the results you want in the mirror right away.
Revamp Your Workout Wardrobe
After having a baby, even your most stretchy workout clothing probably won’t fit the same as it did before you got pregnant. Don’t sweat it, that snugness is completely normal. You just had a human growing inside you, after all!
However, trying to squeeze into tight workout clothing is uncomfortable and can discourage you from working out before you even start. As such, it’s a good idea to invest in some new activewear. By purchasing some cute and comfortable workout clothing that actually fits, you’ll likely be more motivated to hit the gym.
Get A Workout Buddy
One of the best ways to get motivated to work out after having a baby—and just in general—is toenlist a workout buddy to join you on your fitness journey. See if your partner, friend, or family member is willing to exercise with you.
Even if you can’t physically work out together, sending messages to update one another about your progress or following along on the same exercise program can work wonders for your motivation.
Or, if you’re looking for even more motivation and accountability, I have over a decade worth of experience helping people just like you – and in fact, am currently pregnant with baby #4, so I’ve been there before – and will soon be there again and would LOVE to help!
CONTACT ME for a plan dedicated to help YOU ditch the weight and increase your energy today!