The Motivation Myth: Here’s What Actually Works

How to Stay Motivated to Exercise During Postpartum

Postpartum motivation is slippery. One minute you’re hyped to move your body, and the next you’re covered in spit-up, too tired to function, and wondering if carrying the baby counts as a workout (spoiler: it does).

Here’s the truth no one tells you: motivation isn’t the secret to success—it’s the cherry on top.

If you want to stay consistent with movement as a mum, you don’t need a better mindset. You need a smarter system.

Why Motivation Doesn’t Work (Especially Postpartum)

In the pre-baby days, maybe you relied on motivation to show up at the gym. You had sleep. You had freedom. You had predictable windows in your day.

Now? Your schedule is baby-led. Your energy is scattered. Your focus is divided.

Waiting to feel like working out every time just isn’t realistic.
What is realistic? Making movement easier to do—especially on the hard days.

What Actually Works for Mums

Habit Stacking

You already have built-in routines—attach a small movement habit to one.

• After brushing your teeth → 10 bodyweight squats

• While baby is doing tummy time → glute bridges or bird dog

• Waiting for the kettle? → March in place or stretch

It’s not fancy. It’s not intense. But it’s reliable.

Lower the Bar (Intentionally)

Forget the 60-minute workout fantasy. You’re not slacking—you’re adjusting.

If your goal is to do something, it removes the pressure of perfection and builds momentum.

• 5 minutes counts

• 1 set counts

• Doing half a workout then finishing later? Also counts.

Small, regular wins > rare, intense sessions.

Use Visual Reminders

Lay your mat out the night before. Keep your resistance band in sight. Put your activewear on, even if you’re not sure you’ll move.

These tiny nudges make action more likely—especially when your brain is foggy and your hands are full.

Make It Easy to Start

The hardest part is beginning. So take away any friction.

• Have a go-to 5-minute flow you can do anytime

• Keep a few "no-thought" workouts saved on your phone

• Reuse the same 3-move circuit for a week—there’s no need to reinvent the wheel when you’re tired

Focus on How It Feels (Not How You Look)

This season isn’t about aesthetics—it’s about energy, strength, and sanity.

When your reason for moving is feeling like you again, you're more likely to do it.
Not because you should. But because it actually helps.

Progress Looks Different Now (and That’s Okay)!!

Maybe some days you only stretch. Maybe on other days you smash a strength circuit while the baby naps. Maybe your “workout” is dancing in the lounge room to keep everyone happy.

That’s movement. That’s progress. That’s motherhood.

Maybe none of the above is YOU and you prefer a more social environment!

Try out our Mums & Bubs class!

Our class is full of postpartum mums who are on a siimiilar journey, just like YOU! Workout to music and with you baby!

Click the link to learn more :)