For some of us, it is just finding the time to exercise after pregnancy. Or, you may get started but quickly lose momentum and give up. Between the time looking after baby and all the family stuff you have to deal with, you are exhausted! Here's how you can get started and stay on track: * Prepare. We already know you don't have the time to exercise after pregnancy, so you have to write it down like an appointment every day. You wouldn't cancel an appointment, so why would you cancel on yourself? * Start slowly. Do much less than you think you are able to. Take a 20-minute walk if you're newly back to exercise after pregnancy. I know you might feel like it's not enough, but it's a good start. * Get the family involved. Have your older child ride her bike while you walk. Go do a couple of laps at the pool with your family. Celebrate with a little something special after every activity. * Where are your friends? Surround yourself with friends who think positive and live large. Some may have experienced pregnancy before and there is nothing better than a sympathetic ear who can advise you on the best way to tackle exercise after pregnancy. * Give yourself permission to slow down. You're driving this bus! For the first time in your day you are in control. Don't forget, if you can fit in time for the workout, you can squeeze in time for a nap or massage as well. * Walk in public. Be proud of your accomplishment. Even if you still have a few pounds to shed, stand tall and feel beautiful! You have taken the steps to exercise after pregnancy because you care about your body. Besides, fresh air can be good for you! * Just show up. Go to the gym, the class, or the park. Once you're there, it's hard to say no. Ninety-eight percent of life is showing up. You'll feel more accountable if you get involved with something on a regular basis. * Eat. Have healthy and nutritious meals. If you limit your caloric intake, you won't have enough energy to exercise after pregnancy and your metabolism will slow down. * Understand your own personal energy cycle. We all know there are peaks during our day and even during the week. Try to complete your workout when you're feeling good about yourself. If you're having a rough day, it's okay to just take a break. You don't need to push it. * Wallow in your greatness. You can exercise to become a better exerciser or you can exercise to become a better mother, a better wife, or a better friend. Be proud of that accomplishment. * Have fun. Where's your childlike spirit? When you can make workouts "play," you've got it made. Don't give up on yourself. After all, it's never too late to be that healthy person you can be. Take the first step to exercise after pregnancy. If you need motivation, just think: not only will you be helping yourself, you'll be benefiting your family with your newfound energy too!
About the Author
Pearlin Siow is the author of e-book, The Essential Post-pregnancy Weight Loss Guide (www.exercisepostpregnancy.com) which features cutting edge weight loss techniques and energizing tips for new mums. She is also the best-selling author of motivational business book series, Boss of Me! (www.bossofmesingapore.blogspot.com) which features 20 successful entrepreneurs in Singapore. Boss of Me! is available for $15 on Amazon.com.
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