Ever since I’ve had Colin, things have been slow going in the workout department. I’ve definitely given myself plenty of grace to get back into running, but I think I’m finally to a point where I want to start making working out a priority. Eight months postpartum just seems like a good time to start, you know?
I have slowly been getting back out there, taking Colin with me on walks with the family. But the stronger he has gotten, the more I feel I comfortable with taking him in the jogging stroller and pushing myself to run. (Clearly, he’s thrilled, but I promise he was just tired.)
I’ve said it before, but transitioning to life with two is a total game changer. In order to prioritize my health, working out has become a family event. We all go to the park as a family to get a workout in. Now that Charlotte knows how to ride her bike, it’s easy for her and Michael to ride the trail and for Colin and I to run behind them (way behind them).
If you’re living the postpartum days like I am, here are five things you need to get your workout groove back.
WORKOUT NECESSITIES
ONE. WATER
Drinking water is the only thing that really keeps me going these days. Yes, I love my coffee, but if I’m not hydrated, working out is just a no-go. You should try to drink at least 8 cups of water a day (64 ounces), especially if you’re nursing.
TWO. REST
Another thing to get you motivated to workout is good rest. Seems hard with a baby and a preschooler, but now that Colin is sleep trained, my sleep is so important. And if you have a hard time with rest, working out will definitely help you get a good night’s sleep if you workout in the evening. ;) It’s a win-win.
THREE. SUPPORT
My husband is my best supporter when it comes to getting back into running. He’s super helpful and encouraging to make sure I get to do what I love as far as working out goes, which is running. I also have some great ladies I look to for workout inspiration. Find your people and motivate each other!
FOUR. JOGGING STROLLER
Because I’m a runner, a jogging stroller is super important! I love my BOB jogging stroller, and almost every person I asked recommended this one, too. I bought mine used shortly after I had Charlotte, and it still does the job. Definitely check your local resale groups on Facebook for a good deal.
FIVE. A GOOD PLAYLIST
And last but not least, my biggest motivation (besides my kids and family) is a great playlist! I shared my favorite running playlist for a half marathon before, but I needed to shake things up a bit so I created a 90s playlist with all of my favorite songs from middle school and high school. This will definitely get me moving and grooving, and I’m sure it will get you moving and grooving, too!
You can save this exact playlist to your Spotify for free, and you are good to go!
Are any of your favorite 90s songs missing? Let me know so I can add them.
Now that I have a new playlist, I can’t wait to get back out on the trail!
What are your must-haves to get your workout groove back after baby?
I’m super excited to be linking up with Heather from My Life Well Loved and Molly from Stilettos and Diapers and their Mom’s Naptime Power Hour series. Be sure to check out their blog posts today for more workout inspiration.
Cheers to a new week, friends!
Kristin F. says
I love those sneakers!!
Shelly @ The Queen in Between says
I would totally second the great playlist! May has had me all kinds of off on my breakfast/lunch meal planning and my workouts have shown it. Eating enough is also something that will make or break my working out.
Heather says
I’m so glad you joined us sweet friend! It’s such a joy to have you in my blogging friend group. xoxo
Laura Adney says
Yes to all of these! Support is such a big one. I definitely needed my husbands support so that I could go to my weekly HIIT classes to help me not only get my body back but also give me some me time!
Jennifer Green says
Love this! Such great tips!