Exercises for busy parents

As a parent to a newborn, it’s hard to squeeze in me-time, exercise in particular tends to fall off the radar. In between caring for the baby and medical visits we can forget to schedule exercise, leaving it to be last on the list. 

But staying fit and healthy is crucial to caring for your little one, as when you look after yourself, you’re better equipped to deal with the challenges that come with becoming a new parent. 

Research shows that regular exercise not only improves weight loss, posture and tones muscles but it helps improve mood and energy levels, making parenting that little bit easier to cope with. 

But how do you fit it all in when you’re busy running from pillar to post?

First of all, try fitting exercise into small portions of time. This might be a matter of simply scheduling a little incidental exercise here and there such as walking up the steps instead of the elevator, walking to the shops instead of driving or consider parking further away from your doctor’s so you can get a little brisk walk in between. 

Secondly, you can even do a little workout when doing chores at home. This might be adding in a few squats while hanging out the washing, dancing while vacuuming or doing a few online classes while the baby is sleeping. 

Exercise physiologist and founder of The Right Balance Kathleene Alleaume says a sustainable approach to a physically active lifestyle is to treat it as you would a doctor’s appointment.

“It's important to find activities you enjoy. Early motherhood is tough enough, so it can be something as simple as walking everyday with the baby in the carrier or the pram, or sourcing a home exercise you like,” she says. 

“There are great and affordable on-line plans for Pilates and yoga which cater to early motherhood, particularly if you suffer from abdominal separation or pelvic floor issues. 

“If there are any existing injuries, seeing a health professional such as a physio or exercise physiologist can prescribe a safe program to help you recover,” Kathleene adds. 

So, if you think you don’t have time to exercise, think again and remember all the benefits you stand to gain when scheduling it in.