How to workout with a baby - Six Tips
Working out with a baby in tow can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's cube blindfolded. With limited creche facilities in gyms and partners not always available to help, finding time for yourself can seem like a distant dream. But don't worry, it's not impossible! Here are six tips to help you squeeze in that all-important workout while still taking care of your little one.
The Struggle is Real
Every new mum knows that time is a rare commodity. Between sleepless nights and the physical and emotional recovery from childbirth, sometimes just making it out of the house feels like winning an Olympic medal. So, it's no surprise that exercise can often get pushed to the back burner. But even with a baby demanding constant attention, you can still fit in a workout. Here are seven ways to do it.
1. CARiFiT
CARiFiT baby-wearing workouts offer new mums a mood-boosting, energising, baby-bonding experience that you can do anywhere. Backed by science and full of fun, CARiFiT started in a London studio and with classes now delivered both in person and via their award-winning app, its fast become one of the most popular workouts for new mums.
With workouts designed in partnership with Sport England and included in the Royal College of GPs clinical lifestyle toolkit, you can exercise safely and effectively around your baby's schedule without needing childcare.
Perfect for baby bonding while resistance training, this low-impact strength workout is suitable for babies aged 6 weeks to 18 months. While you can do the classes with any carrier, Carifit have also launched the world's first athleisure baby carrier designed to make your baby feel lighter while keeping them comfortable whatever you are doing.
2. Walk This Way
Walking may sound simple, but it’s a fantastic way to work out with a baby. Pop your baby in the pram and power walk to the park. If 30 minutes seems daunting, break it down into six sets of 5-minute or three sets of 10-minute power walks. Or, if you’re looking to meet other mums, check out BuggyFit, the largest buggy workout network in the UK, offering outdoor classes led by instructors specializing in postnatal fitness.
3. Run with Your Buggy
If walking doesn’t give you the endorphin hit you need, consider investing in a running buggy and going for a jog with your little one. It's a great way to fit a run into your day and get your baby to nap. If a new running buggy is out of your budget, check out second-hand options on eBay. For tips on getting started with buggy running, we’ve got you covered - check o
ut our blog with everything you need to know to get started.
4. Busy Lizzie Fitness Classes
Busy Lizzie offers hundreds of classes across the UK for expectant and new mums. Available both online and in-person, their postnatal sessions are a great way to get fit, meet other mums, and entertain your baby while working out. Memberships start at £20 per month and include access to 20 live-streamed classes a week, making it great value for money.
5. BabyBarre
Founded by celebrity trainer Paola Di Lanzo, BabyBarre is a yoga-meets-Pilates class designed for both pre and postnatal women. Work out with your baby (on the mat) at home or in the studio, focusing on core muscles, lower back muscles, and the pelvic floor.
6. Get Fit at Home
If local classes aren't an option and baby-specific home workouts aren't your thing, find a space in your home for your equipment and keep your baby entertained with a bouncer, playpen, or iPad. Even at a young age, babies benefit from independent play and will enjoy watching you. As they get more mobile, it may get trickier, but a little TV time can work wonders. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve during a double bill of Bluey and how much better you'll feel for it!
So, there you have it! Six tips to help you stay fit while taking care of your baby. Remember, every little bit counts, and it's important to make time for yourself too. Happy workouts!
