It’s true that things are a little different after baby. You know, it’s those small signs your body gives that reinforces the reality that you’ve just birthed a human being: the circles under your eyes, nipples bleeding like Vesuvius, and tiger stripes covering your lower abdomen. And with these newfound physical changes, you may feel anything but ready to pick up your running shoes.
But getting your new body back into shape doesn’t mean you have to wear Wonder Woman’s brassiere: you can be a badass mother runner all on your own. Here are a few tips to get your rump off the couch and into something other than Spandex:
1. Carve Out Time
That audible moan just crossed to the other side of the screen. Every mom thinks it at one point or another: who has time to run when they’ve got kids squealing all around them? You do have time — you just have to find it.
Whether it’s during their nap or before they wake up, put yourself on your own schedule. Though it may seem counterintuitive, exercising can actually give you more energy, so try hitting the pavement instead of your pillow when you’ve got a few minutes to breathe.
2. Take The Kids With You
If your kid’s going to be attached to your hip anyway, you might as well embrace those adorable, chubby fingers and modify exercise to include him or her. Using a jogging stroller is a great way to get them involved. Or consider running around as a family in the backyard. Though not — perhaps — the traditional form you usually use, running in the backyard will be a great bonding experience and is an excellent use of space.
3. Invest In A Jogging Stroller
If they’re going with you, you need the proper gear. A jogging stroller is specifically designed for moms on the go. Having the right stroller can eliminate or reduce the risks of pushing a stroller while running. But caution should be used. Before each run, be sure to:
- Look over the stroller for any potential damage.
- Repair any damages found.
- Securely strap your son or daughter in.
- Wear the wrist strap designed to help you maintain control on all surfaces and levels.
- Use the brakes when the stroller isn’t running with you.
- Choose a safe route with little to no traffic.
- Keep your eyes and ears focused to maximize your run and maintain the safety of your kids.
4. Ease Into It
You may feel like you can conquer anything after conquering labor, but it’s important to control the urge to run a marathon on your first days back (and the other half of the room is raising the roof with relief).
The reason for taking a cautious route is this: your body has already gone through a great deal in the last year or so. It’s not going to be quite ready for a full-blown session. In fact, many running issues and injuries come from swapping out or modifying a routine or program before you’re ready for it. So, be wise with how much you take on at a time, and consider meeting with a trainer, initially, if you are able.
Running isn’t just for those gals in skintight shorts. You can rock that uniform! Don’t wait another day. Become that rock star mom, and embrace that badass side. Here are some great resources to get you started:
https://www.runnersworld.com/start-running/making-running-a-habit
https://www.babygearlab.com/Jogging-Stroller-Reviews