To the mama navigating the gym with a wailing baby: Oh, I see you! And honestly, I can relate.
It’s Friday, and while I’ve managed to squeeze in workouts throughout the week, not a single session went as planned. Just the other day, my little one somehow managed to soak through their diaper during our 20-minute trek to the gym. I had forgotten to pack a change of clothes—classic, right? I usually have extras, but of course, not when I actually need them. So, I found myself spending the first half hour of what was meant to be a workout in a nearby store, indulging in a little retail therapy.
The next day, I made another attempt only to be interrupted by my little one’s cries, leading us to make an early exit. On my way out, I noticed another mom leaving with a similar look of defeat. She mentioned that she was just starting her gym journey post-baby, and I wanted to tell her not to give up, but our babies were both in full meltdown mode.
Challenges of Getting Back to the Gym
Getting back into a gym routine after having a baby can be challenging. Maybe you’re trying to establish a healthier lifestyle for the first time. Perhaps you’re feeling a bit self-conscious about your weight (and I hope you’re being kind to yourself as you navigate this). Or maybe, like me, you worked hard to maintain fitness during pregnancy, only to realize how tricky it is to find time to work out now that you have a tiny human constantly attached to you.
Whatever your reason for being there, I’m glad you’re showing up—screaming baby and all. I know you’re probably running on little sleep, and you wish results would come faster after everything your body has been through. It’s hard not to feel guilty about taking time for yourself, but remember that caring for yourself is an essential part of being a great mom.
Embracing the Journey
I can imagine your back may be aching from the constant lifting, and you might be tempted to skip the gym altogether and just nibble on salad for the rest of time. Please don’t do that! And if you’re feeling like a beached whale during those first few weeks of push-ups, know that it’s all part of the process. You’re not actually a whale, and you will get stronger.
Let’s be real: making it to the gym often feels like an Olympic event. But don’t let that discourage you! You might even feel like you’re building biceps just by carrying that baby around, and you know what? You should definitely treat yourself to that cookie you’ve been craving all week.
Keep Coming Back
So, mama, bring that crying baby back tomorrow. No matter your shape, size, or fitness level, you’re doing an incredible job. This post-baby fitness journey looks different than before, but it’s more rewarding than ever.
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In Summary
The journey to fitness after having a baby is challenging but absolutely worth it. Keep showing up for yourself and your little one.