photo by Arek Adeoye via Unsplash

by carol evenson, guest contributor

As a new mom, your to-do list is never-ending. With so many priorities vying for your attention, staying active is probably one of the last things on your mind. If this describes you, these five ways can help you stay active while still tending to your new baby. 

1. Nutrition

One of the best things you can do to stay active is to ensure your body is properly fueled. This happens by eating a healthy diet and supplements on a regular basis. Take a daily multivitamin or a prenatal vitamin if you are breastfeeding. Incorporate a supplemental program for optimal nutritional intake, such as Thrive Experience by Le-Vel. Thrive reviews state that users found the products increased energy, improved moods, and even helped with weight loss. Adding a program like this to your diet can give you that extra boost of stamina you need to get through your day. Your meals should consist of proteins, fruits and vegetables with carbs or fats for energy. However, this is easier said than done. Finding time to eat can be a challenge in itself as a new mom, let alone eat a healthy, well-rounded meal. Meal prepping is a fantastic way to eat more healthily. Since you are likely limited on time, loop in your spouse to help with meal prepping. Decide what meals to eat for the week; make sure they are simple, nutritious meals that do not require many steps to prepare. Purchase the groceries and prepare as much of the food for the week as you can. This way, you have food ready when mealtime arrives.

2. Walks

Walking is a fantastic way to get exercise, and you do not need any special equipment to do it! Bundle your little one in a stroller and walk around your neighborhood. If you know your neighbors, invite them along for some company and adult conversation. Otherwise, bring your phone along to listen to music or a podcast. Or simply enjoy the sound of nature while being outside.

3. Mommy and Me Class

Many gym owners are realizing the difficulties new moms face in trying to exercise with a newborn. To accommodate new moms, several gyms offer mommy and me classes. These classes provide basic movements and activities for you and your baby, so not only do you get some exercise but you get to spend time with your baby as well. Classes typically vary by the baby's age. Do a search online to see what lessons are offered in your area. 

4. Naptime

Naptime is a fantastic time to complete an exercise session. Thanks to the internet, there are a variety of free workout videos online, from cardio to weight lifting to pilates and in between. If your baby tends to take short naps, that is OK. Even a brief 20-minute workout can get your heart rate pumping. Try a few different exercises until you find one at your experience level that you like. Just make sure your doctor has cleared you to work out first. 

5. Chores

What better way to work in some exercise than with something you already have to do? Household chores provide a great opportunity to add some activity to your day without having to set aside additional time. Brainstorm creative ways you can incorporate exercise into your daily chores. For example, instead of lounging on the couch while folding laundry, stand up and do some lunges. You can still binge your favorite shows but now you are burning some extra calories while doing so. Is it bathroom cleaning day? Do some squats in between all that scrubbing. After washing the toilet, do 10 squats. Do another set of 10 after cleaning the sink, mirrors, tub and shower. Is it a vacuuming day? Bring a light weight along or fill an old milk jug with water. While vacuuming, use your opposite hand to do some bicep curls. Switch arms when you go into the next room. 

Though your time is limited, there are ways you can stay active as a new mom. Integrate these five recommendations into your routine to increase your activity levels on a daily basis. 

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