Got a little one keeping you on your toes and feeling like you have a million things to juggle? Remember, just like a baby needs their milk, you need space for yourself. It’s literally every mom’s challenge. I bet you’re wondering how to make time for exercise while working full-time and trying to keep up with all the crazies of motherhood. With some creativity and simple tips, you can easily make time to get your body moving and your heart pumping.
Let’s talk about feeding first. Whether breastfeeding, pumping or using formula, feeding takes up a big chunk of your day. It’s like a full-time job, inside a full-time job, on top of a full-time job. Are you following? But here’s the thing, you can turn feeding time into workout time.
Take it from me, who endured engorgement and nipple soreness from breastfeeding to give my baby the most cost-effective, nutritional milk. But the baby wouldn’t latch for the life of me. Imagine the frustration.
So I went to the most time-consuming way to feed my baby. Pumping. I strapped myself to a pump 4-6 times a day, making it difficult to get other things done.
Then when exclusive pumping was no longer worth my significant investment of time and effort, organic baby formula came to the rescue. It gave me more convenience and a consistent supply.
When it comes to feeding your baby, there is no right or wrong choice. Whether you choose to breastfeed, pump, or formula feed, what is most important is finding what works best for you and your baby. Of course, what is best for one mother and baby may not be the same for another. Ultimately, what matters most is that your baby gets the nutrition needed to grow and thrive. And that you are comfortable and confident in your choice.
Now, let’s talk about making time for exercise as a nursing mom. The key is finding pockets of time you can use to your advantage. For example, if you have a little one who loves to nap, you can use that time to do a quick workout at home. You don’t need much time or fancy equipment. Just a few minutes and space are all you need.
I did all three methods of feeding my baby and each came with its own challenges. However, I found ways to incorporate exercise into my routine for each anyway. Here are my tips for staying active, no matter your choice of feeding style.
Breastfeeding Mama:
It’s important to keep up your milk supply, so taking time for yourself might seem challenging when you’ve got a baby attached to you. But here’s the thing – exercise can boost your milk production. So, it’s a win-win situation. Try to incorporate mini workouts into your day, like squats or lunges, while you’re nursing. You can also bring your baby along in a carrier for a walk around the neighborhood. It’s a great way to bond and get some fresh air. Try a yoga class from an app or a stroller workout if you prefer a more structured workout.
Pumping Mama:
You may have more structured break times, allowing you to fit in a workout. Consider squeezing in a quick workout by doing bodyweight exercises like lunges, push-ups, or planks. While you’re pumping, take the opportunity to stretch. You can even use a set of light weights to do arm curls while you’re at it. And definitely take your lunch break to do some physical activity like going for a brisk walk outside. You’ll feel recharged and ready to tackle the rest of the day.
Formula Mama:
You’ve got more flexibility with feeding, so take advantage of it. Do a quick workout or go for a walk. And if you want more structure, why not try a baby-and-me workout class? Hop on the web. There, you’ll find plenty of options that will fit your preference. You can bond with your little one and get in some exercise at the same time.
It’s essential to prioritize exercise for your physical and mental health. So, get your move on where you’re at. Your body and mind will thank you. And don’t forget to ask for help when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or hired help, there’s no shame in getting help to free up some time for yourself. You should take care of yourself and having help makes a huge difference.
Being a new mom who works full-time can be challenging, but exercising is a must for your health and sanity. Remember, every little bit counts, and with a little creativity and some simple tips, you can easily make time to get your body moving and your heart pumping. So go ahead and put yourself first.
Get the strategy, every tactic, examples, and simple approaches that are used in this post so you can apply them to create your own exercise routine.
The author of HealthHerWay.com is a mother to a toddler who loves everything Spider-Man. Join my email list for a free energy-boosting course, exercise guide, or daily stories with more healthy tips to help you feel good.
[box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]This post contains affiliate links and I may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you, should you purchase through one of my links. Please see my disclosure for more information.[/box]
