The Simple Workout Setup That’s Keeping Me Active Postpartum

As someone who has always loved working out, I’ve struggled to find the time or motivation to move my body postpartum. I don’t want to rely on others to watch my baby, waste time driving to and from a gym, or worry about if he suddenly needs me. But I also don’t want to sacrifice my health and fitness goals! So I decided to make myself a simple home gym setup to get results no matter what the day looks like.

My old routine of 45-60 minutes of uninterrupted time in the gym was a luxury I didn’t even know I had pre-baby. It feels impossible now between baby’s schedule, the Arizona heat, and working from home. I wanted something more flexible, so I sorted through what I’d need to complete my workouts and hit my daily 10,000 step goal from home. I’ve been way more consistent with this setup, and I’m right there by my baby in case he needs me.

My Workout Equipment Non-Negotiables

The things I looked for before buying my equipment.

• Apartment-friendly: Everything needed to fit comfortably in our apartment without taking up too much space. Compact, easy-to-store, etc.
• Affordable: Having a baby was expensive enough! I looked for equipment I knew I’d use daily without spending a fortune.
• Durable: It was super important to me to buy things that could hold up to regular use and that I won’t need to replace in a year.
• Somewhat aesthetic: I’m not the most talented with designing spaces, but I tried to buy things that looked good together. If it’s going to be in our space I want it to look nice! I chose a lot of black/neutral colors.
• Easy to use: Especially postpartum, I want to just grab what I need and start without a complicated setup.
• Versatile: I prioritized equipment that could be used for multiple exercises and types of workouts (like dumbbells) rather than buying a separate piece of equipment for everything.

The Equipment I Actually Use

Walking Pad + Standing Desk

• This walking pad has been the only way I’ve hit my 10,000 steps when it’s too hot to go outside. My only regret is not getting it sooner! I set it up on top of our carpet so I place this walking pad mat underneath. I set it up under this standing desk (48-inch) (I have the color maple) so I can work or watch a show while I get my steps in.

Dumbbells + Rack

• 5’s, 10’s, and 15’s are the only dumbbells I need and make for a super minimal setup. Those are some of the most popular at the gym anyway so having them all to myself is actually incredible. I rack them on this dumbbell rack (with a couple extra spots in case I decide to add more later on).

Workout Mat

• A solid mat was a must. This Gaiam one is super durable with a nice thickness without being squishy. I have the black so it goes with everything else.

Resistance Bands + Foam Roller

• I’ve had these Hope Fitness bands for years. I use them for lower body, upper body, full body, whatever I need. I also have this mini foam roller for stretching and mobility work.

Compact Bench

• This is so useful for all sorts of strength training exercises without taking up too much space. I wanted one that didn’t wiggle (for moves where I would be stepping up on it) and could fold down easily to put away when I needed. This one from Walmart gets the job done.

Between my walking pad, dumbbells, bench, mat, bands, and foam roller, I can do any workout without needing anyone else. I can pause, tend my baby, answer a phone call, do whatever I need, then get back to it. No stress! I remind myself that consistency matters more than perfection and it’s so worth it to feel my best for me and my baby.

My Favorite Fitness Extras ♡

Just some of the things that make staying active a little more fun!

• Garmin Forerunner 55: This watch does everything I need and nothing more – counts my steps, gives notifications, tracks my heart rate, and the battery lasts FOREVER. Seriously like 2 weeks. I’ve had mine for years and used it to train for my half marathon too!
• Walking shoes: I love Hokas, but these Amazon Hoka Dupes are just as good for a fraction of the price (I have the white ones). They’re my designated indoor shoes so they stay clean.
• Water bottle: A cute water bottle makes staying hydrated better in general. I’ve tried lots of different ones, but my Brumate is my most favorite. I have the Era 40oz in Mocha.
• Headphones: Definitely a luxury, but the Bose quiet comfort headphones are so cute and the sound quality is amazing. I got mine as a gift (the Sandstone color) and it’s probably one of the best gifts I’ve ever gotten.
• Cute workout clothes: Not to be dramatic, but I’d consider myself an expert when it comes to finding good affordable workout clothing. My favorites are here on Amazon!

At the end of the day, you don’t need a huge home gym or tons of equipment to stay active. Having a few reliable pieces of equipment and a setup that makes it convenient is all I need to keep moving, especially postpartum. Lots of love to all the moms trying their best and showing up every day no matter what!