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Getting Back to Me: My Journey to Post-Pregnancy Fitness as a Full-Time Working Mom of 2

As a full-time working mom of two young children—a toddler and an infant—life is a whirlwind of activity and responsibility. Yet, amid the diaper changes, meal prep, work deadlines, and endless playtime, I’ve realized the importance of carving out time for myself. As a former athlete who thrived on gymnastics, fitness has always been a significant part of my life. While I know I won’t regain the exact shape I had in my younger years, I’m determined to create a new, strong version of myself – and this is how it starts!.

Embracing My New Reality

First and foremost, I need to acknowledge that my body has gone through incredible changes. Pregnancy and childbirth are transformative, and it’s essential to respect and appreciate the journey my body has taken. I may not be the same person I was in my athletic prime, but that’s okay. My goal is not to turn back the clock but to redefine what fitness looks like for me now, as a mother and a professional.

Setting Realistic Goals

To start, I’m setting realistic and achievable fitness goals. Rather than aiming to immediately regain my pre-pregnancy body, I’m focusing on incremental progress. My goals include:

  • Improving overall strength: Incorporating strength training exercises to build muscle and increase energy levels.
  • Increasing flexibility and balance: Using yoga and stretching routines to regain flexibility and prevent injuries.
  • Enhancing cardiovascular health: Gradually incorporating cardio workouts like brisk walking, jogging, and light interval training.

Creating a Flexible Schedule

With a toddler, an infant, and a full-time job, a rigid workout schedule isn’t feasible. Instead, I’m embracing flexibility. Here’s how I’m planning to fit exercise into my day:

  • Short, effective workouts: Opting for 20-30 minute workouts that fit into nap times, lunch breaks, or late nights after the kids go to sleep.
  • Home-based routines: Using home workout apps and exercises that don’t require a gym, making it easier to stay consistent.
  • Active playtime: Engaging in activities with my toddler that keep both of us moving, such as playing tag, dancing, or going for walks.

Leveraging My Athletic Background

Having been an athlete, I have a foundation of knowledge and skills to build upon. I’m revisiting some of the training techniques from my gymnastics days, adapting them to my current fitness level. This includes:

  • Bodyweight exercises: Push-ups, squats, and planks to rebuild strength.
  • Interval training: Short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by rest, tailored to my current endurance level.
  • Flexibility drills: Incorporating stretching routines to regain and maintain flexibility.

Staying Motivated

Staying motivated can be challenging, especially with the demands of motherhood and a full-time job. Here are some strategies I’m using to keep my spirits high:

  • Tracking progress: Keeping a fitness journal to celebrate small victories and track improvements.
  • Self-compassion: Reminding myself that setbacks are a part of the process and being kind to myself on days when things don’t go as planned.

Involving the Family

Fitness doesn’t have to be a solitary pursuit. I’m involving my family in my journey, making it a fun and inclusive experience:

  • Family walks: Taking evening walks with the kids in the stroller.
  • Active playdates: Organizing playdates with other moms where we can chat while the kids play, and even sneak in some exercise together.
  • Healthy habits: Encouraging a healthy lifestyle by preparing nutritious meals and snacks for the whole family.

Getting back to fitness post-pregnancy is not about reclaiming an old body but about embracing a new, strong, and healthy version of myself. My journey will be filled with challenges, but with determination, realistic goals, and a flexible approach, I am confident I will get there. This journey is about more than just physical fitness; it’s about reclaiming my sense of self and setting a positive example for my children. Here’s to the start of a new chapter in my fitness journey!

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