Getting Into Shape After Baby

Today is a high of 5. Five. But no, let's not give this miserable weather the attention it deserves...

Instead...something positive. Guess who was officially cleared by my doctor the other day to get back into working out running?!

Picture me raising both of my hands and clapping over here! I could've started after 4 weeks off per his recommendation, but I decided to wait until now (closer to 5 weeks) to step back into one of my favorite spaces again. I always wondered throughout my pregnancy if I would have the same motivation to work out after having Camden came that I did prior, just because of wanting the most time with him as possible, but right now the desire and motivation is definitely there. A healthy mom makes me a happier mom!

I know it'll be tough when I go back to work after my maternity leave is over...I mean, I can imagine trying to fit in baby time, work, dinner, and exercising. That sounds tough. I KNOW it will be tough, but you make time for what's important, right?

I plan to start back up exactly how I left off...very slowly! I have 8 lbs left to lose to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight and my plan is to first focus on getting my core back, before anything else, after 9 months of NOT having one. Because abs...what are those?! Breastfeeding...pumping...and just constantly bending over/holding a baby really takes a toll on your back so working on my core will help strengthen those back muscles and help me have stronger runs. I've also got what many call the "mom pooch" (such an attractive term) going on, so I hope to go back to eating really healthy and focusing on getting rid of that. You know, before summer comes and my bikinis are staring at me in the face (special thanks to Target for already having bathing suits out..#not)

Here's some of my favorite exercises I've been doing that I'll do before each cardio session. Even if you aren't in the same boat that I am, these are some awesome exercises to add into your routine if you want to tone up before spring break or summer. If you aren't sure what some of the exercises are, just google them and pictures will come up!

situps // oblique crunches // planks (regular both sides) // crossover crunch // flutter kicks // dumbbell side bends // russian twist // lunges // squats

And here's some of my favorite circuits! The easiest way to remember these, for me, is to pin them to my Pinterest and then take a screenshot on my iPhone of them so that when I'm at the gym I can just pull up my camera roll (or my Pinterest board) and follow along that way...

I'm hoping posting this will hold me accountable and keep me motivated to shed these last 8 lbs. I've heard losing the last of the baby weight can be tough, so I know I've got my work cut out for me!
Anyone else trying to lose baby weight or have in the past? What worked for you? Any tips?!