Oh, how I envy those women who genuinely relish sweating it out at the gym. The reality for me is that I’m more inclined to finish off my kids’ leftover chicken nuggets and enjoy Nutella straight from the jar.
Finding the motivation to hit the gym has always been tough, but after having children, that challenge takes on a whole new level. So, if you’re in the same boat, trying to shed that baby weight (even if your kids are no longer babies), or contemplating a return to the gym after a lengthy break, here’s a rundown of 13 ways working out shifts after becoming a parent:
- Before kids, you needed to spend considerable time on the treadmill to work up a sweat. Now, just the frantic rush to get the kids ready and into their carseats leaves you drenched.
- Jumping jacks were once an effective way to elevate your heart rate. Now, they can lead to a little accident if you’re not careful.
- You used to enjoy yoga for its holistic benefits. Now, it’s your sanctuary where you can lie down in peace without interruptions.
- Remember when you chuckled at the woman who fell asleep on her mat? Congratulations, you’ve now become that woman.
- Your gym choice was once based on equipment and class variety. Now, it’s all about finding a facility with the best childcare area filled with toys.
- While on the elliptical, you used to blast your favorite tracks. Now, you keep the volume low, dreading the moment you hear the gym’s intercom announce, “Mom, that just started her workout to the daycare…”
- Your playlist was once filled with the latest hits. Now, it’s dominated by Disney songs, and that third repeat of “Let It Go” is your cycling anthem for the day.
- The gym mirrors used to serve as a source of motivation. Now, they can be intimidating as you notice things jiggling and bouncing in ways they never did before.
- Your workout attire was once stylish and coordinated. Now, you’re lucky if you remember to wear a sports bra beneath an old college t-shirt.
- Previously, you had a plethora of water bottles at your disposal. Now, you’re carrying a Doc McStuffins water bottle because adult versions have vanished from your life.
- You used to find motivation for workouts in events like a casual friend’s wedding. Now, it’s more about realistic issues, like wanting to avoid your backside resembling your mother’s.
- Back in the day, you’d skip a spin class for social events. Now, you’d skip it for far less: maybe a needed nap, a lack of desire to shower, or simply because the kids want to watch Frozen again.
- Pre-kids, rewarding yourself with Starbucks after a workout was the norm. After kids? Well, that hasn’t really changed.
If you’re navigating life after kids and thinking about fitness, remember, some things remain the same. It’s all about adapting and finding joy in the little victories.
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In summary, working out after having kids is a completely different experience filled with new challenges and adaptations. While some aspects may stay the same, the journey requires creativity, humor, and a lot of flexibility.