Feeling unmotivated to workout?

When movement feels challenging, it can be hard to try to find an exercise routine. Perhaps it’s difficult to find the time. Maybe certain exercises feel uncomfortable. Perhaps you feel self-conscious about your body after baby.

We can feel anxious, torn, and discontent with this part of our lives. We can feel defeated that we’re not doing enough or obsessive that we have to get it perfect. We can either make physical health an idol or we can give up taking care of our bodies completely. Neither way is best. Both leave us feeling empty.

Mama, do you feel stuck in this area of exercise?

First, I want you to know that I understand. These can be challenging waters to navigate.

And two, I want to tell you the truth.

Perhaps the reason you feel stuck with exercise is that you’ve forgotten what’s true.

Maybe I have too.

So let’s refresh ourselves.

Mama, here’s the truth about exercise.

The truth about exercise.

1. It strengthens our bodies.

It goes without saying, but exercise is good for our physical bodies. It builds muscle, strengthens our heart, and fortifies our bones. It helps us maintain stamina so we can live healthy lives, and it equips us to face whatever ailments and injuries that come our way.

2. It lets out stress.

Exercising is a great way to let out stress and tension. It makes us feel good. It releases endorphins. It can get us out of our head, and that can be a really good thing.

If you are feeling anxious, depressed, or even a little tired, perhaps exercising might help!

3. It’s a form of stewardship.

God has given us bodies, and they need movement. When we neglect this (unless for some injury or life circumstance), we are not honoring the way God made us. Our bodies are not our own (1 Cor. 6:19). They are to be a living sacrifice (Rom. 12:1). They are the vehicle through which we accomplish the ministry God has given us. As wives and mothers, it’s important for us to be as healthy as we can in order to fulfill the work God has called us to.

4. It’s an act of love.

When we take care of ourselves and seek to look nice, that honors our husbands. When we pursue a healthy lifestyle, it’s an example to our kids. Exercise is not just about us. It’s an act of love to others. And ultimately, it can be an act of worship to God.

5. It doesn’t have to be perfect.

Exercise doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing thing. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be effective or worthwhile.

If you can only do something small, that’s great! If you can’t lift much weight, it’s okay! If you can only manage a short walk, a 5-minute workout, or some stretching, do that! You’re not failing if you can’t do more. Do what you can. It’s worth it.

6. It helps to make it a habit.

Habits are so powerful. When we make exercise a habit, we are way more likely to stick with it. We won’t have to always decide if we’re going to workout or what we’re going to do if we already have a routine in place. Again, it doesn’t need to be long or intense. In fact, the smaller habits are probably more sustainable anyway!

7. It should serve your season (not the other way around).

Have you ever tried to fit a square object into a round hole? Perhaps you attempted it and gave up. Maybe you tried to force it. That’s how it feels when we try to fit an old way of exercising that no longer works anymore into our current season of life. We start serving it instead of using it as the tool God gave us.

Wherever you’re at – early postpartum, struggling with your pelvic floor, needing some stress relief, short on time – find movement that supports you.

8. It’s a gift.

Being healthy enough to move and exercise is a gift. The sick, handicapped, and elderly know this. Rather than being frustrated about what you can’t do and rather than seeing movement as a chore, see it as a gift. Savor the moments you do have and the activities you can do. They are blessings.

9. It can look so many different ways.

Remember that exercise can take many forms. There’s running, walking, strength training, pilates, HIIT, bodyweight exercises, dance, bicycle riding, swimming, basketball, volleyball, hiking, and a plethora more. Find something you enjoy and that can fit into your daily life.

10. It’s fun.

Exercise can be so fun! Don’t reduce it to a terrible chore. It so doesn’t have to be. That’s not to say it doesn’t require effort and that it can take some push to get started. But it should also be enjoyable. It should also feel life-giving. Find what works for you.

***

Mama, let’s not believe lies.

Rather, let’s be active how we can. Let’s take care of our bodies, because they are not our own. Let’s reject the feelings of shame and anxiety over how we look or feel. And let’s fix our eyes on Jesus.

FAQ about Working Out

1. How do I find the time to workout as a Mom?

Moms of young kids often have little bits of down time throughout the day.

My advice is to have a loose plan for how you’re going to move that day, and then utilize a 10 or 20-minute chunk of time when the kids are happily playing. It’s also great to engage them in your movement. They might just have a blast!

Here is a post with more tips! How to Find Time to Workout (as a New Mom) – Thankful Little Mama

2. Where do I find the energy to workout?

When we’re tired, it can feel even harder to get motivated to exercise. This takes wisdom.

Sometimes, we just need to relax. On these days, movement can wait.

But on the other hand, exercise can also energize us! Sometimes working out can help turn a tired, anxious, or discouraging day around! Just start moving. If you need to, just commit to 5 minutes, and then see if you want to do more after that!