Your beautiful bundle of joy has arrived, and suddenly all of your priorities have changed. In the process of trying to make the world perfect for your little one, any focus you had placed on yourself is now nonexistent. Sleep deprivation is the norm. Showers are a victory. And exercise … who has time for that?

If you know it’s for everyone involved, you have to make time for it. It’s nearly impossible to be a good mommy if you aren’t taking care of yourself. And, here’s a little more motivation to get out and exercise – with your baby in tow.

Lose That Extra Baby Weight
Those pre-pregnancy jeans will fit again. Start by going out for a walk using a sling or a stroller. Stop along the way to do some squats, toe raises and push-ups. And, before you know it, you’ll have gained back your strength and endurance. Even better, the mommy tummy will be long gone once you begin doing some crunches with baby too.

But remember, it generally takes nine months to take off what took nine months to put on. Don’t get discouraged if you’re not back to your pre-pregnancy weight immediately. Don’t compare yourself with those celebrities who are back in their skinny jeans three days after giving birth; personal trainers, chefs, nannies, housekeepers and airbrushing do wonders.

Become an Active Role Model
The rate of childhood obesity is growing at an alarming rate. Now is the time to instill in your child the values that you wish them to hold later in life. When they interact with you while you’re exercising, it will be a natural instinct later on to get outside and be active.

New Mommy Network
Many times after women have a baby, they tend to feel socially isolated. In addition, family members might not be around to help out past those first few weeks after the baby arrives. What better way to meet like-minded moms than to meet them while exercising?

Now is the time to stop making excuses about why you don’t have the time or energy to exercise. Rather, you can’t afford not to start today.