Fitness: Finding Time to Workout (With or Without a Baby!)

Exercise has always been a huge part of my life, even as a child. I was always active in dance classes or on dance team, I played tennis, and my family frequently spent time together doing outdoor activities. I really don’t remember a time when I didn’t have a gym membership or wasn’t involved in some sort of activity.

I got into Crossfit about two months before I found out I was pregnant. I was hitting up a CrossFit class three days a week,  running twice a week, and doing some prenatal yoga in between until I was placed on bed rest at 28 weeks. I can’t lie, that news crushed me. Of course I was willing to do anything to protect our son from arriving earlier than we wanted, so I complied without hesitation. But when you can’t do something you love that brings you less anxiety, less stress, and just overall makes you feel like a better person…it messes you up a bit. Mentally and physically (although I’m proud to say I pushed him out QUICK).

I thought for sure I would get back into CrossFit soon after I was cleared from my OB, but that took a little longer than expected because I just couldn’t find the time to workout with a baby! A year later, I am now managing three CrossFit classes a week and I’m stronger than ever! But it took awhile to get back to that point, and I found ways to fit working out into my routine without having to leave my home. So if you’re a new mom struggling to find the time to exercise, or maybe you just hate going to the gym, today’s post is for you!

Finding time was my biggest challenge, but here’s how I managed to fit it in:

• Nap time. This is great for those quick 10-20 minute workouts because then you can try to fit in a shower as well (considering your child naps for at least an hour!). We also bought a used treadmill on Craigslist for less than $100, so I can head down to my basement to run a quick mile as soon as he goes down for a nap.
• Early morning, before the babe wakes up. If you can swing this, more power to you. I couldn’t because of pumping, and also my child likes waking up at 530am. :/
• After bed time. Usually I’m so exhausted from the day at this point, but I found that if I get dressed into my workout clothes before I put Landon to bed, I’m more motivated to workout immediately after he’s down. For some reason changing into clothes after he’s in bed uses up all of my remaining energy and I’m like yeahhhh, no.
• During your lunch break. Now, I realize this isn’t possible for everyone. But this is really what worked best for me. I technically get an hour lunch break, so if I’m able to make it work with my patients, I’ll try to fit in a workout.
• Workout with your baby/child. Maybe find a mommy and me yoga class, or go for a walk outside. I have a BOB Revolution SE jogging stroller, so if all else fails and the weather is good I’ll take Landon for a run!
• Set small goals. Maybe you work 12 hour days and you’re just exhausted. Or maybe your significant other is only available weekends to help you watch your little one. Find what days work for you and make those your workout days. I’m happy with 3 times a week, and know that 5-6 just won’t happen. Don’t set yourself up for failure!

I found multiple online workout programs that are fun and motivating, and can be done in the privacy of your own home! These are especially good for the working mom, or the girl that travels for her job or works those awful 12 hour days.

Tone it Up: Really you just want to hate these two because their bodies are in ridiculously good shape in the most perfect way, but you can’t because they’re so sweet and amazing! The Tone it Up community is a great one because everyone is so motivating of each other. This would be good for someone requiring some accountability. Their different workout series are really fun, and while I couldn’t always complete what they recommended each day, I still managed to get a decent workout in! Price: FREE, unless you purchase their meal plan.

Blogilates: Cassey Ho has to be one of my favorite chicks ever. She’s super over the top motivating and upbeat (some may find her annoying, but once you get past that you’ll love her!), and she knows how to kick some @$$ in a short period of time. I frequently use her videos for quick 10 minute abs routines. My current favorite is her 5 lower ab exercises. She also has some great HIIT workouts, and again all of this can be done in your home! No equipment required! Price: Free!

Barre3: This is really great for postpartum moms because it’s not intense and doesn’t involve any heavy movement, plus there are videos specifically for postpartum moms. Barre 3 a ballet style workout that combines yoga and pilates, which is performed at the barre (or chair!) and involves little to no equipment. What I love about Barre3 is you can choose the length of your workout. So if you have 10 minutes or an hour, there’s a video for you (and countless of them!). You do need a small ball for a lot of the videos, which can be purchased for cheap on their website. There is a monthly membership fee, but it’s minimal. Price: There are a few options: $15/month, $70/6 months, or $120/year.

YouTube: You would be surprised as to how many workout videos you can find on YouTube! Sometimes I’ll search for a good yoga workout to get my yoga fix. Price: Free!

Blogs: There are fitness blogs EVERYWHERE! Some of the ones I follow are Simply Sadie Jane for her at-home CrossFit workouts, and Pink Heels Pink Trunk for her No Excuses Workout Series. Price: Free!

I’m hoping this helps if you’re struggling to make time to exercise! Of course, diet plays a huge role as well, but that’s a whole other topic. If you have any other tips for fitting in a workout, or you know of another really great online workout program, leave it in the comments below!