Alright mummas, let’s talk fitness!
Or, more accurately, let’s talk about attempting to get fit while juggling life, kids, and the need to nap at every given moment.
Somehow, in a haze of optimism (and possibly sleep deprivation), I’ve signed myself up for a 10km “fun run” in January.
Yes, that’s right, a 10km FUN run!
I jest! I love running — it makes me happy — and used to run A LOT before I fell pregnant. Running 10km used to genuinely feel like fun … It just doesn’t feel so fun at the moment given my lack of run fitness after, well, not running for almost a year! (I stopped running in pregnancy for various, well, pregnancy-related reasons).
So signing up for this 10km run is all about getting a bit of “me time”, getting back into shape and run fitness, and getting back to my happy running self again.
Because a happy mumma means less mum rage — ha! 🙂 — and a more present mumma when caring for my precious baby girl. Plus, I’m all about inspiring the next generation of female runners!
why sign up for a fun run? because science says it’s good for us!
As a first-time mumma, I know I’m not alone in sometimes feeling a bit, well, down, lonely, anxious, frustrated and like life revolves around baby and nothing else.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m here for all of it! And I 100% LOVE being a mumma! But, like with anything, sometimes it can get a little tough.
In fact, according to the experts, the “baby blues” are relatively common after giving birth.
However, they can be associated with reduced self-care — which isn’t great! — and, in severe cases, can compromise infant caregiving and bonding, which can impact baby’s development, so it’s important to engage in behaviours that support mental health.
This is why engaging in things like fun runs and other forms of exercise and activity is not only great for mummas but babies, too!
And here’s the thing: new research from the British Journal of Sports Medicine actually backs up my new goal to get moving again.
The researchers found that at least 80 minutes a week of moderate-intensity exercise — things like brisk walking, bike riding, swimming or running — can help ease the “baby blues” and reduce the risk of serious postpartum depression.
According to the study, exercise-only programs, so not including medication or counseling, are proving to be a powerful mental health boost for mums.
In fact, the study’s findings show that starting exercise within the first three months after birth — if safe to do so — has the most impact on reducing depressive symptoms.
While I’m well past that early postpartum phase, it still holds value, and I’m all in for the long-term mental health benefits.
Getting moving just 80 minutes a week (so, 20 minutes over 4 days — easy!) can make a real difference.
It’s not about setting Olympic records — it’s about feeling a little more balanced, more energised, and yes, more ourselves.
And if this January run gets me there, then it’s already worth it!
the baby steps … and some toddler intervals too
So, how am I going to get back into running and able to run 10kms by January?
The game plan is simple: start slow, stay humble and consistent, and work up to running 30/40/50 minutes slowly to avoid injury.
I’ve also signed up to the coaching app, Runna to get some guidance as I train towards the 10km fun run — they’ve also got me doing some interval sessions to get some speed back, too!
And honestly, I’m up to running 3-4 times per week now (approx. 30 minutes per run) and it’s been so great to be back running again!
I’ve already noticed how much better I’m feeling — mentally and physically!
Plus, adding in Barre sessions to the mix things has been the perfect complement to running.
Barre is ideal for strengthening those core muscles, improving posture, and building endurance, which goes hand in hand with any running routine.
It’s all about avoiding injury and gaining strength!
It’s a full-body workout with a mental boost, keeping things interesting and giving me an excuse to connect with others in class, too. Win, win!
training with toddlers: the ultimate interval workout
Trying to train while managing babies or toddlers? That’s its own brand of cardio. Amirite? Phew!
Well, why not use your daily walks to the park as an extra interval session?
Picture this: run a few metres, pause for a snack, start up again, stop to pick up a tossed sippy cup or dummy (for the millionth time! I mean, COME ON), sprint, then stop for a quick park break.
Toddler-led interval workouts might not be the most conventional training, but it’s effective (and fun … in a chaotic kind of way).
BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE!
I’m a bit late to the party, but speaking of toddler-led workouts, I recently came across this 20-minute stroller/pram workout for mums on YouTube — perfect for busy mums on the go!
the mental game
Here’s the truth: at the moment there are days when just thinking about running makes me want to crawl back into bed.
But I remind myself that running 3-4 times per week is just as much about mental strength as it is physical.
And I remind myself that I want to be the best version of myself, the best mumma to Miss A that I can be.
So on those days, I go back to the research: Exercise-only interventions are associated with a 45% drop in odds of major postpartum depression, and even a moderate routine has a real, measurable positive effect on overall health.
Now that’s worth getting out of bed and out the door for a run!
Plus, buying new runners also helps … with getting out the door! 🙂
countdown to january: bring it on!
So, with January on the horizon, I’m somewhere between excitement and mild panic.
Two months to go! YIKES!
But honestly? I’m ready … or at least I will be.
Running may be a simple act, but it’s a profound one for so many mums like me who are trying to carve out a bit of time for themselves.
And I know that every step I take toward that finish line is one step closer to feeling my best — body, mind, and soul.
And to all the other new or first-time mums out there?
Here’s to getting back out there, one sweaty, toddler-distracted step at a time!
x G.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please consult a healthcare provider. For immediate help, call triple zero (000) or attend your nearest Emergency Department.
editor, journalist, digital content creator with a background in nutrition & dietetics.
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