Many new mothers rely on exercise to help them shed the baby weight, and working out has the added benefits of relieving stress and giving you time to focus on yourself. But it can seem near impossible to spend time on the exercise machine when your baby needs constant attention. Don't let exercise slip to the bottom of your priority list; instead, try a few new techniques to keep your baby safe and happy while you enjoy a workout.
Choosing the Right Time
Try to schedule your exercise sessions to coincide with your baby's nap time. This eliminates the stress of trying to entertain your baby while you're on the treadmill or elliptical, and it helps keep you committed to a regular exercise schedule, because at six months old, your baby is probably napping every day. If you usually spend nap time catching up on housework or getting some much-deserved rest, try getting up 30 minutes earlier to work out before your baby wakes up, or exercise after she goes to bed in the evening.
Making It Safe
If working out while your baby sleeps isn't an option, turn exercise time into playtime for your baby. Set up a space right near your treadmill or elliptical that will keep your child safely contained and keep him within your line of sight. Doorway gates and adjustable play yard gates are perfect for creating a safe spot for your baby. Many six-month-olds are still immobile, but if your baby is crawling, keep him away from dangerous exercise equipment by surrounding yourself with play yard gates. Make sure his play space is free of any potentially dangerous objects and all electrical outlets are covered.
Entertaining Your Baby
To keep your baby as happy as possible while you work out, save certain toys and activities just for exercise time. This will prevent boredom from playing with the same old toys, and may even make your baby look forward to this fun time of the day. Activity centers, stationary entertainers and jumpers are good choices for keeping six-month-olds entertained for extended periods of time; books, blocks and soft balls are also great basics for kids this age. Try to rotate the toy selection in the play space every few weeks to keep your baby interested. If you don't mind your baby watching a little bit of television, turn on a show or video designed for babies to keep her interested for 30 minutes or so. Kids' music is another way to make playtime extra fun, and you can sing along and make funny faces while you exercise.
Tips
Timing is important when it comes to keeping your baby content while you exercise. Choose your baby's happiest time of day, whether that's first thing in the morning or right after his bath, and try to exercise around the same time every day so it becomes a predictable part of your routine. Make sure your child is also fed, well-rested and has a dry diaper during exercise time so he's as comfortable as possible. Don't be discouraged if your baby needs you to step off the exercise machine and give him a few minutes of attention now and then. Exercising with a baby can be difficult, but taking care of your body is well worth the extra effort.
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