Becoming a mother is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it also comes with its own set of challenges—especially when it comes to prioritising your health and fitness. Early motherhood is a whirlwind of nappy changes, sleepless nights, feeding and looking after your new bundle of joy, which can make it difficult to find time for exercise. Here are some of the key difficulties that I along with many mothers face in trying to incorporate fitness into our busy lives.
1. Time Constraints
One of the biggest hurdles is simply finding the time to work out. With a newborn or a toddler demanding attention, the hours in a day can feel like they disappear. While it’s essential to prioritise self-care, the reality is that many mothers may struggle to find even 30 minutes for a workout. One way is to get baby in the buggy or front pack and get out for a walk. In the park incorporate some squats push ups on a bench or lunges, even just adding these to your walking laps helps.
2. Fatigue
New mother fatigue is real. Between late-night feedings and early morning wake-ups, many mothers find themselves physically and mentally drained. This exhaustion can lead to a lack of motivation to exercise, even if they know it would boost their energy and mood. I have found personally getting up early and doing some movement is the best time to try add some into the day. Most days its the last thing you feel like doing but it does give you energy after and having 20 minutes to yourself is so important.
3. Guilt
Many mothers experience guilt when they take time for themselves. The thought of leaving a baby with someone else, even for a short workout, can be overwhelming. This guilt can be compounded by societal pressures that suggest mothers should be constantly present for their children. However its very important to look after yourself because if your mental health declines then you’ll struggle to look after your baby. So its a balance of caring for you both when possible.
4. Lack of Support
Not all new mothers have a support system in place. Whether it’s a partner, family, or friends, having someone who can help with childcare can make a significant difference in a mother’s ability to exercise. Without that support, it’s challenging to prioritise fitness. This is when walks in the buggy come in to help you get out and at least get a walk in. Don’t underestimate how good walking is for you. Try make this a daily priority.
5. Physical Recovery
For mothers who have just given birth, physical recovery can take time. Postpartum bodies may feel different and require careful navigation when it comes to exercise. It’s essential to listen to one’s body and ease into fitness rather than jumping in too quickly. Ensure you get medical clearance before starting any fitness program and get a qualified trainer to assist you so you are not doing any damage.
Conclusion
While the challenges of juggling early motherhood and exercise can feel daunting, it’s important to remember that every small step counts. Finding a routine that works, whether it’s a quick home workout or a walk with the baby, can help mothers gradually reclaim their fitness journey. Being kind to yourself and recognising that it’s okay to ask for help can make this process a little easier. Let me know if these points resonate with you and whether you have had or are having similar experiences.
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