Is getting your sexy back after having a baby possible? I remember being tired all the time. I barely had time to bathe, never mind feel sexy. I smelled like spit-up and always had a beautiful baby attached to my boob.
Some might say that is a beautiful image. Yes, it is. I LOVED becoming a mom and experiencing a new kind of life. But I am also a woman. My body changed after having my babies. It was rounder, loser, jigglier, wider, heavier, and not sexy. I know, I know it’s normal. But why did I have to concede to that normal? I heard it all. Eventually, you will lose weight. Eventually, you will have more time. Eventually, eventually, eventually…what about now?
I was never into yoga, and back then, I certainly wasn’t into running. So, what’s a new mom to do? You can easily find Mommy and Me yoga classes throughout Westchester. If you’re a runner, invest in a good running stroller and find a smooth path. You can join many groups to run or jog with other moms and your baby in the stroller. But, if you are like me, and neither yoga nor running is for you, try to work out with your baby while holding them in a baby carrier. How brilliant is that? As long as your doctor says you can work out, you can get out there and get your hustle back. I was never keen on having a stranger in a gym watching my babies, so working out while holding my baby in a baby carrier at home would have been great for me.
How do I get started?
All you need is your beautiful self, your bundle of joy, water, a baby carrier, and your phone to time your movements. There are free apps you can download for at-home workouts. You don’t need weights because your baby acts like a “weight vest.” Since the workout takes place in one spot, you don’t need much room. You will not be on the floor, and you will not be jumping. Form is very important to prevent injury. If you have never worked out or are not sure how to do an exercise, go to a class or hire a personal trainer. Most importantly, do not work out unless you get the ok from your doctor.
The Workout
- Alternating front lunges (1 minute). Remember to keep your knee over your ankle. You can raise your hands to the side for added strength (15-second rest).
- Stationary squat (1 minute) hold your squat. You can raise your arms over your head for added strength (15-second rest).
Repeat two more times.
- Alternating Lateral lunges side lunges (1 minute with a 15-second rest).
- Basic squats keep knees over ankles (1 minute with a 15-second rest).
Repeat two more times.
- Alternating knee ups (1 minute with a 15-second rest).
- Modified Jacks – no jumping. Put your right leg to the right, with your toe touching the floor, while both arms go out to the side and up, then back together. Repeat on the left side. (1 minute with a 15-second rest).
There are so many modifications and alternative exercises you can do at home. Never let anyone convince you it is too hard. You can do this for yourself without feeling guilty that you are neglecting your baby. You are bonding with your baby.
What are the benefits of working out?
There are so many great benefits to working out. It strengthens and tones your whole body. It boosts energy, relieves stress, and helps recover and prevent postpartum depression. It also helps get your sexy back.
