While motherhood might be a workout of its own, lifting weights or sweating through a cardio session is a therapeutic outlet that can’t be replaced. But in between naptime, bathtime and playtimes, finding time for fitness is something a lot of mums find difficult, with holding planks replaced by holding their newborn, meal prepping replaced by chicken nuggets for dinner & wiping away sweat replaced by wiping up after their infant. While motherhood might be your main priority now, you don’t have to sacrifice the things that make you stronger, empower you and give you confidence. To help you balance the heavy lifting with the laundry pileups, we recruited our Ryderwear mums to share their best advice for keeping fit throughout motherhood.
1. GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION
The first step is overcoming any guilt or self-doubt you might be feeling about giving up family time to focus on your fitness. Remember, self-care isn’t being selfish! You need to look after yourself so you can look after your family, and by prioritising your own health & wellbeing, you’ll teach your children the importance of fitness.
2. BE STRUCTURED
While you used to be able to lift weights, grind through a HIIT session or do a yoga flow whenever you wanted, you’ll benefit from set workout times and structure. Just like you schedule meetings & sports training, make sure you pencil in your workouts. Having a set time in your calendar to train will help keep you motivated and disciplined, and avoid your fitness being pushed aside for something else.
3. BUT ALSO, EMBRACE SPONTANEITY
On the other hand, we know that motherhood is messy. From sleepless nights to last-minute school drop offs, being a mum is unpredictable, so it can be beneficial to be prepared to fit in a spontaneous sweat sesh when your best laid plans go awry. Turn a power nap for them into a power walk for you to get some cardio in. Spread your workout into 20 minute segments throughout the day. Keep some resistance bands close by for when you have some peace & quiet. Flexibility is so important for balancing fitness with family!
4. WORK YOUR KIDS INTO THE WORKOUT
For those working out from home, there’s no reason why you can’t include your kids in the session. We’ve created a sweaty workout you can do with your child, in the comfort of your own home here
OUR TOP PICKS FOR MUMS
Balancing motherhood with lifting demands versatile activewear that has you covered for comfort. Check out our top picks for the #fitmums.
SHOP LAYERS
SHOP TRACK PANTS
SHOP LEGGINGS
SHOP TANK TOPS
