Photo by Jonathan Borba
Finding the time to exercise can be a challenge for anyone, but it’s especially daunting for moms. Between changing diapers, preparing meals, and managing everything else that comes with being a mother, it’s not uncommon for physical fitness to take a backseat. But, as you will know, it is really important that we all exercise, and moms, in particular, whose bodies have been through a lot, and who have a lot to do, can really benefit from being more active. While you are thinking about adding exercise to your regimen, make a point of ensuring that you are seen by a chiropractor if you are having any back pain or issues. You have carried a child which can alter your posture. Instead of thinking about how your back is in pain, get it fixed and exercise in peace.
That being the case, let’s take a look at some of the most important forms of exercise for moms from a guest writer.
- Kegel exercises
If there’s one form of exercise that every mom is going to want to do, it’s definitely Kegel exercises. These exercises target the pelvic floor muscles, which support the uterus, bladder, small intestine, and rectum. Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken these muscles, leading to complications like urinary incontinence. To do Kegels, imagine you’re trying to stop urinating or passing gas. Tighten the muscles you’d use and hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat this 10 times, thrice a day. However, remember to consult your healthcare provider before starting out with Kegels, especially if you have just given birth.
- Walking
One of the most accessible forms of exercise, walking can be done anywhere, anytime. Whether it’s a stroll in the park with your little one, brisk walks in the morning, or marching in place during your favorite TV show, walking is an excellent way to get your heart rate up and improve cardiovascular health. It’s also a low-impact activity, so it’s gentle on your joints.
- Strength training
Strength training isn’t just for bodybuilders. Lifting weights can help build lean muscle mass, which in turn boosts your metabolism and helps you burn more calories even when you’re at rest. Strength training also promotes good bone health which is important for women, particularly as they age. You don’t have to lift heavy weights; even light dumbbells or resistance bands can make a significant difference.
- Pilates
Pilates is a wonderful low-impact exercise for strengthening the core, improving posture, and increasing flexibility, It is also ideal at targeting and strengthening the pelvic floor, so when used in conjunction with Kegels, it can be very effective in that area.
- Cardio
Cardio, or aerobic exercises, as they are often referred to, improve heart health and help burn calories. You can try activities like cycling, swimming, or even dancing to your favorite tunes. The key is to find something you will stick to, and ideally, if you can find a cardio activity that the kids love, you can get them to exercise right along with you, showing them how much fun it can really be to lead a healthy lifestyle.
The best exercise is the exercise you will do regularly. That being said, if you can do a combination of all of the above, you will be one of the healthiest moms on the block!