In recent years, strength training has been all the rage in the fitness world. It’s been drummed up as the key to sculpting toned muscles and boosting metabolism – and while it certainly has its place, I’m here to share why I believe it’s not the be-all and end-all for us busy mums!
While strength training undoubtedly offers plenty of benefits, relying solely on it might not provide the comprehensive support our bodies and minds need!
To really get the absolute best results, the holy grail is…. combining strength training, Pilates AND cardio.
But first let’s talk about some basics of working out as a mum, to keep it doable and
Quick tips to get great results from your workouts
Prioritize consistency over intensity. Consistency over intensity ensures that fitness truly becomes a part of your lifestyle, rather than something you dip in and out of. Regular, moderate exercise not only fits better into a hectic schedule but also reduces the risk of burnout and injury, setting the stage for long-term success and commitment! ✨
Sometimes, our bodies get accustomed to the same old routine, and it’s time to shake things up. I recommend increasing the intensity of your workouts or adding more resistance when you are hitting a plateau. You can also add 1-2 workout sessions to your weekly routine - but this is usually less realistic for busy mums! And don’t forget the importance of rest and recovery – giving your body time to repair and rebuild is key to progress.
Try incorporating a wide variety of workouts to keep your body guessing and prevent boredom. If you’ve only been doing strength training - try adding 1 or 2 HIIT sessions a week. You can also incorporate more Pilates, yoga and flexibility into your fitness routine. You can even start running or swimming - both are great cardio options. There are endless ways to challenge yourself and keep your workouts fresh and exciting, often also leading to the progress you’re after!
Types of workouts
Below I give an example of the three types of workouts I have combined and my clients do to get fit again as a busy mum.
Strength training is great for building lean muscle, boosting your metabolism and burning more calories even at rest.
I have found that combining strength training with Pilates is an absolute game-changer in achieving results, body and mind. Pilates focuses on strengthening the core muscles, meaning it is incredible at toning up your abs, giving you a long and defined look. It is also one of the best workout types to strengthen your pelvic floor (no more peeing your pants when you jump or sneeze 🙈). Plus, it’s a lifesaver for stressed-out mums! The slower pace of the workout is perfect if you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, helping to transition your nervous system from a ‘fight-or-flight’ mode to a more relaxed state.
Whether it’s a walk, a dance class, or a HIIT session, cardio is incredible for calorie burn but also offers plenty of benefits beyond that. It strengthens your heart, improves circulation, boosts your mood, and enhances your overall endurance – essential for keeping up with the demands of busy mum life.
Overall, it’s about creating a balanced, healthy lifestyle that you can stick to in the long run! It’s time to redefine what fitness means on your own terms. Make this year your strongest one yet 💪🏻
DM on IG to discuss how you can start working out to feel fit and make it fit your schedule and needs.
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