As a new mum, working out might be the last thing on your mind. Getting used to life as a parent is really difficult in those first few hazy months and the sleepless nights can leave you feeling like you have no energy to do anything. However, as well as potentially helping you to lose weight, working out can have a fantastic impact on your mental health and well being. With all those post-pregnancy hormones flying around, there’s no better way to feel great than a quick bit of exercise at home. Here are some top tips to help you smash your workout goals.
Find what motivates you
Losing weight doesn’t have to be the reason why you want to work out. Working up a sweat is great for your mental health and well being. Exercising releases endorphins that boost your immune system, leave you feeling less stressed, and can help improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. Something all new mums, no matter how happy they are, have experienced at some point in their life as a new mother.
Whatever your motivation is for working out, keep that thought in mind so that you always feel inspired to keep on track with your workout goals.
Choose the right foods to complement your fitness regime
Sleepless nights and increased hormones can leave you feeling like you want to snack or binge on sugary and salty foods throughout the day. However, it is important after working out, to refuel your body with some goodness.
Eating the right things will help your muscles recover quicker and make you feel even more energised, Try a healthy evening meal of grilled fish and refreshing cucumber salad or whip up some peanut butter pancakes for a quick protein boost!
Even at home – you don’t have to work out alone!
If the recent pandemic has taught us anything, it is that we can still be social, even when we are locked down in our homes.
Set up a Google hangout with your friends and work out together in your living room to encourage and motivate each other. Join an online class that you can do in your living room while the baby sleeps. Working out at home no longer needs to be a solo activity which is another bonus for your mental health and motivation!
You can download an app. Results Wellness Lifestyle is a fitness app which gives you access to a range of online workouts run by professional coaches, LIVE classes as well as lots of recipes to try at home. The app has many types of workouts to help achieve your fitness goals including weight loss, toning up and postpartum exercise plans.
Ensure your muscles are fully recovered
Working out at home isn’t just about the physical training. Using a recovery tool such as a massage gun on your muscles is a great way to get blood flowing and it reduces the likelihood of next day muscle soreness. Have you ever tried picking up a baby whilst suffering with DOMS? It is no easy feat!
Whether you want to lose weight, boost your mental health, or simply build your fitness back up after your pregnancy, working out at home is an easy way to leave you feeling energised, happy and healthy. With the right fitness equipment, mindset, and food in the fridge, you will smash those fitness goals in no time!
Collaborative post