I’ve been a mum for 20 months now, which means I should have post-birth bladder control underway by now, but no… Still having issues with the pelvic floor. Not only that, for some reason since bringing forth a tiny man, I seem to have lost all coordination.

Those fine motor skills ain’t so fine these days, where simple activities like “yogging with a soft j” just look awkward. #hellogumby

I used to play competitive soccer, hockey and even a bit of snowboarding during the winter months. Now, I can barely run without looking like I’m being attacked by swooping magpies. This is why I risk my dear life (I live in a dodgy neighbourhood) and run in the dark. Because it is hilarious to watch and no one should have free access to that.

Embrace The Cardio

The point is, a little bit of cardio goes a long way. Wanna lose weight? Simple. Go for a walk. Go for a run. Why make things complicated? I think we are led to believe that we need premium gym memberships to achieve results. Like the ones where you pay extra dosh just to see more nudity on music clips that play while you’re slogging it on a treadmill aspiring to look like [insert popular artist here].

You Don’t Need A Gym

While gyms are good, and definitely great for motivation, coaching and perhaps even a sense of community, hitting the pavement can be just as effective or a great supplement to your circuit training. Not only do you burn energy, but you get fresh air and can enjoy a bit of nature too (unless you run in the dark, in which case mind the bins on bin night).

Just Give It A Go!

The bottom line is that getting fit post-baby should simply be about having a go. You might have been lucky and never had to run a day in your life before you gave birth, but now you feel like you need to start.

Running is something we take for granted.

Just like with any other fitness activity, running takes practice and sometimes a little bit of help.

Get Your Feet Checked

You might be wise to visit a podiatrist to have your gait analysed before you begin running, so that you can reduce the risks of hip, knee or ankle injuries – which can destroy your running dreams completely. Some athletic shoe stores actually include this as part of their sales service when buying running shoes, which you may be interested in utilising.

Ban The Bounce

Another thing you should invest on is two good-quality sports bras. Breast bounce when running or walking damages the Cooper’s ligament, the main ligament that holds the breasts. Research by Berlei and the AIS (Australian Institute of Sport) found that a 12B bust bounces 8 centimetres while running, imagine what a DD or an E cup is doing. Unfortunately, once this ligament is damaged, it’s damaged forever. Take your time selecting sports bras, ensure they are comfortable and fit you right before you start exercising in them.

There are many different styles available, so take your time and shop around for something you really love. It will make you feel better about getting dressed up to run that marathon.

Now, go get your sexy on. We’re going to buy a new sports bra.

What exercise do you do? Tell us in the comments below.

Image source Shutterstock.