The birds are louder, the days are longer, and the sunshine’s (mostly) back – hello, spring! After the hibernation vibes of winter, it’s the perfect time to gently get moving again. But if you’ve got a newborn in your arms or a crawler underfoot, hitting the gym might be off the cards – and that’s totally OK.
The good news? Movement doesn’t have to be separate from mum life. One of the easiest ways to stay active is to move with your pēpi. Active play is great for baby’s development – and it gives you a way to stretch, breathe, and bond without needing a workout plan or a babysitter.
Here are a few gentle, fun ways to add more movement into your day, just by playing together.
Babywearing Walks
A classic for a reason. Pop baby into a wrap, and go for a short walk around the block, to the shops, or just around your backyard. The gentle movement is calming for baby (especially if they’re unsettled), and it gives you a chance to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
Top tip: Spring here in NZ can be all over the place, so dress both of you in light layers. And don’t forget the sunhat – for both of you!
Strolls with Friends
If you’re heading out for a walk, why not invite a friend to come along with their pēpi too? A stroller walk with another mum (or a local coffee group) is a great way to move your body and fill your cup. The fresh air, adult conversation, and a little shared laughter can make all the difference on those long baby days.
Top tip: Set a regular date to keep each other motivated – even a slow lap of the park counts!
Tummy Time & You Time
While your baby’s doing tummy time, get down on the mat with them. Try a few cat-cow stretches, gentle glute bridges, or even a few planks (if you’re feeling up to it). It’s a great way to interact with baby at their level while sneaking in some movement for yourself.
Even five minutes makes a difference – and baby will love watching you move.
Dance it Out
Pop on your favourite tunes (or baby’s lullaby playlist – whatever works!) and have a mini dance party. Whether you’re holding baby in your arms or letting them wriggle on the floor, moving to music is a total mood booster.
You don’t need choreography, just move how your body wants to move. Swaying, rocking, bopping around the kitchen… it all counts. Plus, babies love rhythm and movement – it helps their brain and body connect.
Mum & Bub Stretch Sessions
You don’t need to go to a class to do some simple stretches or yoga at home. There are plenty of free videos online tailored to postnatal bodies or baby-friendly yoga moves. Focus on gentle stretching, breathing, and reconnecting with your core (and your sense of self).
If baby’s in a happy mood, let them join in – lying next to you, reaching for your hands, or just being nearby.
Outside Time = Active Time
Head to the park or beach and let baby explore safely on a blanket or in the grass. If they’re mobile, encourage crawling or toddling. If not, even lying under a tree watching the leaves move is a sensory experience. Being outside naturally invites movement – for both of you.
Final Kōrero
Don’t feel pressured to “get back in shape” or smash any fitness goals right now. You’re in the thick of growing and caring for a small human – that’s enough. But moving your body a little each day, in ways that include your baby, can help boost your energy, improve your mood, and create lovely bonding moments.
So chuck on your activewear (our Breastmates Harem Pants are a particular fave – they look and feel great), grab your pēpi, and have a wriggle, a bounce, or a wander. Active play is about joy, not pressure. And we all deserve a bit more of that.