You’ve recently given birth, and your focus is on your amazing, perfect baby. In the midst of all the excitement (and sleep deprivation) it’s easy to make your newborn your one and only focus. But what about your bod? That stomach isn’t going anywhere unless you do something about it—which is why we came up with some solid, results-oriented exercises that can and will get you back to your pre-baby body. Towel pulse, and stroller lunge yourself to a rocking new bod, and all while your baby sleeps!
The Towel Pulse
The towel pulse is an easy one to master, and the perfect post-pregnancy exercise to master. All you need is a flat floor to practice on (your living room is perfect) and a towel. While your baby dreams away, lie on your back with your knees bent. Roll up your towel, lengthwise and hold onto each end. Place the towel over your bent knees, and pull it towards you. Tighten your abdomen muscles, and pull yourself up off the floor (using just your ab muscles). Keep your muscles contracted, hold for 3-5 seconds, and lower yourself back to the starting position. Repeat 5-6 times.
Lunge in the Park
It’s not easy to fit everything in your ‘new mom’ schedule—between diaper changing, feedings and sneaking it a nap here and there (while your baby sleeps) can be challenging. But, doing something good for yourself, like stretching and strengthening your body should be a priority. Nothing can sooth your new baby to sleep quite like a stroller ride, so once she falls asleep, start lunging!
Don’t worry about getting a full thirty or forty minutes of exercise in. All you need to worry about is getting some exercise here and there—this will build up your momentum, desire and healthy lifestyle to where it once was, or simply where you’d like it to be for the future. Lunge in the park, lunge while you move from the living room to your kitchen. Lunge while walking from your front door to your car. Short spurts of exercise while your baby peacefully sleeps can make a world of difference.
Being a new mom is a joy, but it also comes with challenges. Who says you have to go about new found motherhood, and getting your ‘sexy back’, all alone? If you want social interaction with other new moms, take a ‘Pilates and me’ class—they’re everywhere, and it’s a powerful class that won’t just get your sexy body back—it’ll bring you back to your reality, with other moms who can share and sympathize what you’re going through.
However you choose to exercise, remember: the first step is the hardest. Once you begin an exercise plan (go easy on yourself while your body is healing), your pre-baby body is right around the corner!
