Let’s start by saying that postpartum bodies are AMAZING. You grew a tiny human in your body and brought them into this world. That in itself is incredible, and you should honor your body in all its postpartum glory. That being said, getting back in shape and losing weight after baby will not only keep you feeling your best but also give you the energy you need to keep up with your kiddos as they grow, crawl, walk, and eventually run!
Of course, it’s important to get the green light from your doctor before starting an exercise routine, but once you’re given the “go ahead,” there are plenty of activities you can do to get in tip-top shape and start losing weight after baby!
Remember, exercise should never feel like a chore.
Find activities you actually enjoy and prioritize them! Not only will this help you physically and mentally, but it will set an example for your child as they see you putting your health first.
Here’s How to Start Losing Weight After Baby
Use your stroller
Walk, run, and find hills in your neighborhood. Join up with other moms or let this be time to bond with your little one. Be sure to look for workout classes in your area that you can attend with your baby. What a great way to start losing weight after baby and make new mom friends at the same time!
Lift in the living room
You don’t need a gym membership to work out! Squeeze in some bicep curls and lunges while the baby naps. No weights at home? No problem! Bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups and planks, work multiple muscle groups at once, which will definitely help you start losing weight after baby. How efficient is that?
Throw some jabs
Have some pent up frustration? Save your sanity and find a kickboxing class. Punch and kick your way into shape. Plus, any group exercise class is an awesome way to make like-minded friends, stay motivated, and begin losing weight after baby.
Hit the pool
Hard exercise doesn’t have to be hard on your joints. Swimming is a total body, low impact workout. Plus, there lots of strokes to choose from, so you’ll never get bored. Check out your local health club and find out the pool hours. Don’t forget your goggles!
Read More: It doesn’t have to be swimsuit season for you to feel comfortable wearing one, so be sure to tell yourself these three things.
Find your zen
Ever try yoga? Now’s the time. Stretch out your body after holding your baby all day and clear your mind, all while strengthening your muscles. Remember, the hardest part is actually getting to yoga. Once you’re done, you’ll feel ready to take on the day.
Sweat it out on the elliptical
Put on your tunes and get an extraordinary cardio workout, minus the pounding on your joints. Most ellipticals have settings to increase the intensity. Try doing intervals by going really hard for a minute (start with 30 seconds!), then bringing your heart rate back down. The benefit? Interval workouts will help your body burn calories long after you leave the gym.
Belly up to the barre
Small movements make a big difference when it comes to losing weight after baby. Try a barre class for a ballet-inspired workout for any fitness level. No dance experience necessary! You’ll be feeling this workout in your butt and legs the next day.
Pump those pedals
It’s time to dig your bike out from the garage. Explore your town on two wheels or enjoy the trails. Soon you’ll be able to bring baby with you. Biking is also a great way to catch up with friends. Call a pal and bike to lunch together!
Run, Mama, run!
Especially if you were a runner before baby, find your happy pace on your local running path. Thrive on competition? Sign up for a race and get training. If you have a jogging stroller, this workout can be done with your kiddo! Just be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water for your little running partner!
Walk it out
Don’t underestimate a simple walk. Bring light weights, pick up the pace, or find some hills to really start losing weight after baby. Need more motivation? Pick a destination, like a store or nearby coffee shop, so you don’t feel like you’re walking aimlessly.
Pick up Pilates
Remember your core? Reacquaint yourself with your midsection and challenge yourself with Pilates. Be sure to double check with your doctor before embarking on serious core work. Find a friend to go to class with you, and you’ll be a lot more likely to attend.
Go for a hike
Live close to mountains or nature trails? Start hiking! You can even wear your baby to get the whole family involved. Just remember to bring plenty of water and snacks. Oh, and don’t forget to take pictures. The view from the top is worth the hike.
Pop in a video
Remember those old exercise tapes from the 80s and 90s? The leg warmers might be out of style, but check out YouTube for at-home workouts. Some fitness routines even specialize in losing weight after baby, so you’re sure to stumble upon some good exercises. The best part? You don’t even need to leave the house.
Shopping, anyone?
Ok, maybe leave the credit card at home, but power walking through the mall is a great way to squeeze in some cardio, especially if the weather isn’t ideal. Between people watching and lots of stores to go in and out of, there’s no way you’ll get bored.
Read More: Easily carry your baby during shopping days with Moby
Get on board
If you live near the water, take advantage and give paddle boarding a shot. This will work your core, while also giving you some spectacular water views. Have older kids? Bring them along! Talk about an unconventional way to start losing weight after baby.
Remember rollerblading?
You can cover a lot of distance on wheels, so channel your inner child and start blading. This can be done indoors or outdoors. Look for a smooth trail or a nearby rollerskating rink. More interested in ice skating? Give that a go!
Squat, squat baby.
You can do this anywhere! No gym needed. This functional move targets your quads and your glutes, so keep on squatting. Just remember to keep your back straight and dig those heels into the ground. Need more? Hold a light weight while you squat for added intensity.
Start spinning
Talk about a calorie burner! Join a spin class and get motivated with energetic music and inspiring instructors. Spinning is awesome because you’ll get an extraordinary cardio workout, while also toning your entire lower body. Check your gym’s class schedule and hop in the saddle!
Read More: If you are starting to exercise regularly, add in a 7 Day Sugar Detox Plan
Jump rope!
Ok, it’s time to have some fun! Remember adults can jump rope, too! Blast away baby fat while also impressing your kids. Family jump rope party, anyone? Just be sure to find a jump rope that fits you, so you don’t trip.
Bring back recess
Kids going out to play? Join them! You’ll be surprised how much fun you’ll have just by running around and enjoying the outdoors. Kids exercise all day and don’t even realize it. Remember, nobody said getting fit had to be boring. Losing weight after baby can be as easy as playing outside!
Team up
Would you rather join a team than a gym? Find a local recreational league! Make new friends and maybe even find a new favorite sport. And once you commit to a team, you’ll be hard pressed to find a reason to skip. Kickball, soccer, softball, dodgeball – pick your game!
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You’re in a new phase of life now, which can mean a new fitness routine, especially when it comes to losing weight after baby. Embrace it, enjoy the endorphins, and let exercise back in your life! Whether you thrive in a gym setting, outside in nature, or prefer the convenience of at-home workouts, there’s definitely a workout out there waiting for you. And who knows – you might even find a new favorite activity!
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Grab some postpartum clothes to reshape and shrink your post baby belly.
Photo Credits: Luis Quintero | RUN 4 FFWPU | rawpixel.com | AndiL. |Pixabay
