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How to actually get in shape after having a baby and get your body back? Let’s face it – that’s a question most (if not all at some point) moms ask ourselves. Unfortunately, there’s not one trick that does it all. And the fad diets and misleading info revolving around the internet don’t help either! But that’s okay – don’t be discouraged! There are a few simple steps you can follow in your daily routine to help you get in shape after you’ve had a baby.
There’s a disclaimer here – your results are unique and solely yours -not to be compared with anyone else’s. Even If you follow all the steps, eat healthy, exercise, etc., it depends on lots of factors. Such as your metabolism, how active you are, how much weight you gained while pregnant, etc. Sometimes it really takes more time, but eventually we can all get there! Don’t forget it took 40 weeks (give or take) to create that beautiful new person, so don’t rush yourself to bounce back straight away, it takes time.
You might think ‘Hmm, how random and obvious’, but it’s KEY!
DRINK PLENTY OF WATER
It’ll help you not only to look better but feel better too. The less water you drink, the more you will retain it in your body which makes you look puffy. You really don’t want that.
Aim for at least 2.5 litres per day. That’s a good start. You’ll see how funny it is – that the more you get used to drinking water, the thirstier you’ll start to feel.
Check out this article too – it’s all about How to look and feel fresh while sleeping less.
BE MINDFUL WITH YOUR FOOD
Yes, exactly – mindful. I used this word intentionally as whoever’s been through the postpartum period knows this really well. You need food to heal, nourish and strengthen your body that just brought an entire new human earthside. No matter what type of birth you’ve had. That’s why I didn’t say diet. Plus, If you’re breastfeeding, this gives you a need of approximately 600 kcal more to eat daily. So, don’t starve yourself, just watch what you put in your mouth. Choose high protein meals, vegetables, fruits and whole foods. Stop eating when you feel full. Step by step. Your body knows what it’s doing, it just needs a little help from you with the right nutrients.
I’m fully aware that with little to no help around it could be really tricky to find the time to eat, or to even prepare something, but just try to be super organised, cook a few simple things at once if you can and don’t buy stuff that you don’t want to eat! As, let’s face it – if it’s there and you know it, you’ll eat it sooner or later.
How to actually get in shape after having a baby and get your body back?
MOVE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN
That’s right! Everything counts. Move around the house as much as you can, whether it’s cleaning or organising, go for a walk with baby – a great way for some movement and fresh air for you both. Do the shopping, carrying those bags counts too. As well as carrying the baby whole day long. It’s the little things that add up. Always have it in the back of your mind that everything takes time too! Don’t be impatient and punish yourself if some days you just need to rest or eat a piece of cake. It’s okay. That’s not a competition. Strive to look at the bigger picture and just be consistent. That’s how long-term results happen.
Another awesome way to be active and recharge your mind and body (if you can fit it in the busy day-to-day schedule) is a
WORKOUT
Complete Unity Yoga
Again, if you worked out pre-pregnancy it really matters. The body remembers and thanks you for taking care of it. Just make sure you were cleared by your doctor to workout postpartum! It usually takes 6-8 weeks (it could be less or more depending on your recovery), but always consult with a professional.
Start easy, start light! No matter what your workouts pre-baby were, don’t overdo it straight away. Be gentle with your body. Give it time. Begin with a warm-up, some light stretching, just to feel your muscles activating.
A great way to start working out again is yoga. Relaxes the mind and strains the body. Plus, with time you can advance your yoga sessions. You are also not bound by a place to go to. You can do it everywhere and anytime you can and want. All you need is just a great yoga mat and a bit of motivation to start.
Let’s help you with both! Motivation will come with results, so just start and take your time.
As far as the yoga mat goes, you want it to be non-slip and of good quality. Like the one from Complete Unity Yoga – beautiful minimalist design and amazing quality. You can use code DHT15 at checkout for 15% off (sitewide excluding sale items).
Having the perfect yoga mat means you won’t be distracted by anything (only maybe by a crying baby, eek!) and you’ll enjoy your workout the most.
If you have some help with your little one and the time to spare, do a gym workout if you prefer it. It’s another great way to train, get in shape after having a baby and get your body back.
Plus, you’ll have some ‘me time’ while also being around other people. A change of scenery is always welcome.
Even if it’s only once a week, still do it! You can always train at home the rest of the days when/if you can fit it in.
It really is that simple
Calories in vs. calories out. No magic pills, no magic foods. Just pure determination, patience and consistency. It’s always easier said than done though, but don’t give up!
Extra skin needs time to start looking better too.
Some people say that you will never get your old body back. I think that this is and it isn’t true at all.
It is true, because YES – it is NOT the same body, it just created a whole HUMAN and that’s the biggest, most amazing miracle!!!
And NO – it’s not true as we’ve all seen women look way better some time after having a baby, as they put in a lot of work and effort, so don’t let people’s opinions discourage you.
You do you!
Train, move a lot, nourish, rest (as much as you can) and repeat!
Little tips and tricks that help while on your journey to get in shape after baby and get your body back:
- Pick a cute outfit when you train. Looking good always boosts the mood
- Don’t force yourself to eat foods that you hate! Healthy food doesn’t need to be tasteless. Quite the opposite – choose tasty recipes that you love and it’ll be much more sustainable to eat that way long term.
- If you don’t feel like eating fruit – drink them! Freshly squeezed juice, smoothies, shakes.. you name it!
- Same goes for protein – make a protein shake if you’re not feeling like eating or don’t have the time! A yummy choice is from the brand the MyProtein – The Whey.
- Get yourself a smart watch like the Galaxy Watch 5 to track your movement if you don’t have one. It’s helping so much to track daily steps and progress! Great motivator!
This article was all about How to actually get in shape after having a baby and get your body back. See you in the next one!
Meanwhile, check this one – The best playtime ideas you can find.
