Postpartum Fitness: How Small Habits Lead to Big Changes

One of my first thoughts after becoming a mom was, “I get parents now.” I understood that all the rushing, all the planning, all the time-keeping, all the thinking-three-steps-ahead for potential hazards, disruptions in schedules, feeding times, nap times and nap durations come with the territory of caring for a little one.

Once we got a routine (mostly) figured out, mayhem often reared its ugly head with canceled daycare, teething, or sickness that took out the whole family. All of this made finding time for fitness feel nearly impossible.  

Why Small Habits Matter

With the chaos and the unpredictability of day-to-day life, it’s so vital to set aside time for yourself, because the small habits you build lead to big changes over time. One of the initial ways I carved out that time postpartum was with walks with my newborn. Together we got a change of scenery, neither of us had to talk, and I was able to move my body. That small routine eventually led me back to running as my body healed postpartum. Making small moves towards your fitness goals will ultimately get you to a place where you can take bigger leaps over time.

Showing Up Tired

With a baby, the shifts are 24 hours and they don’t care how long you slept. After returning to work, sleep deprived and all, I adapted to showing up tired. My clients gave me energy, and seeing their strength gains after my maternity leave made it imperative for me to show up for them and keep the momentum going. I chose to treat myself as a client in my own training. I surveyed how I felt and adjusted the volume or weight accordingly. Some days I just did core work; other days I crushed a full upper body session. Showing up, even when exhausted, led me to make progress, no matter how small. 

Prioritizing Yourself

It is so easy to get lost in the role of being a parent and make every move about the little ones, or to completely sideline your own needs for the needs of the family. But prioritizing your own health as a new mom or dad is worth it, even if it’s hard. Your consistency, even in small doses, adds up.

Written by Ashley Bazan

 

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