Finding time to exercise

1. Use a day planner to loosely plan your workouts around your baby's schedule. In the morning after your baby's first feeding, try going for a walk with the baby in the stroller. (Start with flat terrain and progress to different elevations). When your baby goes down for her nap, try taking 15 minutes to do some core conditioning exercises. (Yes, this does require willpower, but when you start seeing results it will keep you inspired to do more.)

2. Join a "Mommy and Me" exercise class. Check out your local hospital, gym, community centre or pediatrician to find classes. These are a great way to bond with your newborn, meet other new moms and fit in some exercise time for you.

3. Create a library of exercise videos that are different lengths so you're already equipped for when you find unexpected time.

4. Perform exercises while you're doing daily activities, such as a couple of yoga poses while you wait for the kettle to boil (downward dog is a great way to relieve an aching back and shoulders). Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) can be done anywhere and are very valuable for achieving a strong, stable pelvic area, which is usually lax due to pregnancy hormones still present in your body (especially if you're breastfeeding).

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