Most mums will admit that raising a kid is hectic, especially for the first baby. Few mothers make time for themselves for fear of looking selfish and most struggle trying to get fit.
Working out with a young child is difficult because you need to monitor them almost all the time. Therefore, according to MovingBabies, you need a routine that allows you to exercise while still with the baby. Running is ideal for this. Running is considered a full body workout, and you can bring your baby with you.
While this idea might excite you here are some things you need to keep in mind before you and baby leave the house.
Get Your Flawless Body Back with These Effective and Easy New Mom Fitness Tips
In a perfect and dreamy world, every mom would have at least an hour a day devoted to juggling an ideal fitness routine and a heavenly jog with their new baby. However, in the real world, 24 hours a day does not seem like the adequate time to fit in family duties, pet care, baking and taking care of your newborn angel.
Lucky for you, here are six ways to sneak a workout into your super busy schedule, so stop stressing today!
#01. Consider Your Baby's Age and Health
Babies have weak necks, and therefore, you will need to wait until your young one is at least eight months. Additionally, while you might have your kid bundles up in warm clothes, they might not be healthy enough to take outside for extended periods. Therefore, before you make any decisions, make sure you talk to your doctor. They can look over your tot and tell you if it is safe to go running or jogging with them.
#02. Buy the Right Stroller
For this activity, a traditional four-wheeled stroller will not do. You will need to shop around and find a functional and reliable jogging stroller, and if you have twins, consider purchasing an excellent double jogging stroller. It will ensure your child is comfortable and safe while you run around. Additionally, it will also be easier for you to push. You need to make sure that it is not too heavy and can be adjusted to suit your height.
If you, however, need a break from running due to some injuries, a ride in the park or around the neighborhood with a sturdy and functional bike trailer is the perfect way to enjoy the scenery and also get fit.
#03. Remember Safety First
You will need to choose a route that is friendly for the both you and your baby. It is preferably one without many bumps and in a safe area. Additionally, you will need to start checking the weather forecasts more often. While a drizzle and wind might not affect you, your child's immunity is weaker and, therefore, they are more susceptible to illness. You also need to make sure you understand how your stroller works. It involves knowing things like the location of the brake handle.
#04. Try to Stay Consistent
Exercising is essential if you want to stay fit and sane. Therefore you will need to try and maintain some consistency. It is not simple for most people because on some days you might not even want to leave the bed. Therefore, to avoid lapsing back into inactivity, you need to appoint someone in your life to hold you accountable. This person will give you the nudge or shove you may need to get out of the house.
#05.Draw up Schedules
When you have a baby or babies, your plans need to revolve around them, this way you do not feel like you are neglecting them or missing out on parenting. You will need to start thinking about your thirty minutes job or run as something you need to do every other day. This way you have a harder time skipping this activity.
#06. Remember You Need to Have Good Form
If you want to feel refreshed and energized after a run, you need to maintain proper form. It will involve having the right posture. While you may be inclined to lean forward when pushing the stroller you need to remain upright. Additionally, keep your wrists loose and use your core and lower body instead of your arms to propel you forward. This way you will not have an aching back or a painful neck after the session.
Raising a child is a job in itself; therefore take things as they come. When you miss a run do not feel too bad about it, start planning for the next one.
