Exercise with a New Born

As an expecting parent, a question that has been raised in our house lately, is how are we going to exercise with a new born?

Being a health professional, you would expect that I am an active person.  Currently, my weekly exercise consists of a combination of gym, running and walking 4-5 times per week.  Previously, I was cycling 4-5 times per week, leaving home/ disappearing at 5am on a Saturday mornings on the bike and returning at lunchtime.

My wife is also an active person who loves to run.  Previously we have both exercised whenever we have wanted.  Sometimes we would run together, other times I’d do my thing and she would go for a run.  Becoming pregnant has certainly slowed down her running and her exercise has been reduced to walking and home based yoga.  The aches and pains associated with pregnancy have contributed to her being able to do much less exercise than she would like.

As expecting parents, we sat down to get an answer to the questions of “how are we going to exercise with a new born?”  As with most things in life, having a plan does increase chances of success.  So, we figured that would be a good place to start.  What is the goal of our plan?  For my wife, she would like to slowly get back to running 4-5 times per week.  For me, my goal is to be able to maintain my current level of exercise and keep my wife happy.    The challenge will be adding that into our lifestyle without sacrificing the needs and wants of our new little guy.

What is our Plan?

1. Being prepared, just like a boy scout. Knowing everybody’s schedule for the day, even our little guys, has helped us identify opportunities for an exercise session.  Based on how much time is available will dictate what type of exercise is done.  For example, I now when I go to the gym, it’s at least an hour from when I leave, until I return home.
2. We want to be able to take our little guy for walks. From our research, a pram with bigger rubber wheels was suggested.  We bought a pram that has bigger rubber wheels.  My wife could possibly even run with the pram if she wanted.
3. My wife purchased a Yoga DVD that includes our little guy in the exercises. Something that she can do at home, either with our little guy or when he is sleeping.  However, I do not think she will be doing yoga with our little guy after his feeds!
4. Being flexible. Our goal is to create an exercise schedule that allows us to complete our exercise goals each week.  A flexible exercise program will help us create greater adherence and longevity.

Its good to have a plan, but let’s see over the next few months how we are able to put our plan into place!

How have you been able to get back into your exercise routine after the birth of your baby?