Just get moving....

When it comes to getting back to movement post-baby, I think that's almost harder than the whole 9 months leading up to that. (I love my post-baby body but sometimes dream of having these abs again!)

After I gave birth to Bubba, I wanted nothing more than to get my body "back." I wanted to look the same as before and I wanted to get the dang baby wieght off. I had been really active before I was pregnant and loved to workout while pregnant. It made me happy and it felt so good to be taking care of myself, instead of considering pregnancy as a disorder.

But after Bubba was born, I was soooo tired. I really lacked the enthusiasm (or the energy) I once had. Not to mention the time it took to get myself up, ready, and out the door with baby in time to make a class...even if Bubba could come with me. It was really challenging. So I began to ask these questions:

How do we find the time to take care of ourselves?

How do we plan, organize, and priorities to make sure that mama is well and healthy?

Why is it that we have all these resources for prenatal and are willing to use them, but so few choices for postpartum and even when needed we aren't sure we should ask for help?

Finding time as a mom can be challenging. There is ALWAYS something. Even moms like me, who spend their life helping other people get stronger and healthier, have a hard time finding the time and the balance to make it happen. But it's possible. Here are THREE easy things you to remember so you can get some movement daily.

1) Depending on the age of your kids, use them or incoporate them into your workout.

If you have small kiddos, 3 and under, use them as weight as you get moving. They are an automatic weight vest. Get the baby carrier out and start walking, squating, or climbing stairs. If you have older kids, this is a great time to get them moving with you, or what may be more likely, to get you moving with them. Either way, get them walking, climbing, squating, runnings - whatever - with you you. Having your kids witness you taking care of yourself and getting them involved is such a great thing to see. You are leading by example and that alone speak volumes.

2) You don't need a full hour.

This is the biggest thing I think moms struggle with. They think they need a full hour to get moving. You can get a great workout, both body weight strength and cardiovasular endurance, in under 20 minutes. Between a quick warm-up, some mobilization or dynamic range of motion, and a fast circuit or Tabata (:20 seconds of movement, :10 seconds of resting for 4 minutes) workout, you can be done during naptime.

3) Just start moving.

Just move. It doesn't have to be fast. It doesn't have to be pretty. But MOVE! If you are

having trouble getting motivated on your own, find a Mama and Baby class in your area. There are bootcamps, and swim classes, and yoga and so much more. But make time every day to move, and possibly with your kids so they can see you taking care of yourself. A happy mom is best. A healthy and happy mom is even better.

You can do it Mamas! You are already rockin' this mom this so hard! You are inspiring, and perfect and doing your very best. If you are struggling with getting moving now that you have kids, you aren't alone. Remember that. But keep these easy things in mind and you can make it happen. And on the days you can't, reach out. There is always someone out there ready to give you a little push....I know I'm happy to do it!

Keep doing what your doing mamas....raising small humans one day at a time!

Big Hugs~ Mama C

#getfit #stayfit #movingmamas #womenhelpingwomen #justmove #postbaby #momfit