Between holiday prep, school events, family gatherings, and social outings, you probably feel like a zombie. The chaos of the holidays can leave little room…or time…or energy for workouts, so you might catch yourself thinking, If I can’t do my full workout, why bother at all?
This “all or nothing” mindset — the idea that if you’re not hitting every workout perfectly, you may as well skip it altogether — is common among us women, but I’m here to tell you, fitness during pregnancy and motherhood actually requires and thrives on flexibility. So if you want to keep your sanity, and your gains, keep reading.
The Problem with Saying ‘Screw It’ to Healthy Habits during the Holidays
“If I can’t get my usual 30/45/60 minute workout in, why bother?”
It feels logical in the moment, but this mindset is a recipe for burnout, and unnecessary guilt — especially during the holiday season. Motherhood, pregnancy, and life in general are full of unpredictable curveballs: toddler meltdowns, surprise school projects, or just plain exhaustion.
When we cling to the idea that fitness is only worth doing if it’s done perfectly, we set ourselves up for failure. Instead of celebrating small wins – like getting in 10 minutes of movement – we tend to focus on what we didn’t do, creating a cycle of frustration and shame. Sound familiar? Girlfriend, been there.
But we know that even a few minutes of movement can make a difference in how you feel, so on a chaotic day, a 10-minute stretch session, a quick walk around the block, or even dancing in your kitchen while cooking dinner all count. During pregnancy or busy mom seasons, it’s about meeting yourself where you are—not where you think you “should” be.
Why Flexibility is Key to Staying Fit (and Sane) During the Holidays
When you stop striving for perfection and embrace flexibility, here’s what happens:
- More Mental Space: Letting go of guilt and pressure leaves more room for joy and connection.
- Better Consistency: Small, consistent efforts add up over time.
- A Positive Mindset: You shift focus from what you missed to celebrating what you did do.
Tips for Staying Active When You Feel Like There’s Literally No Time
Here’s how to keep moving without adding stress to your already packed season:
1. Micro Workouts: The Busy Mom’s Secret to Staying Fit
Short on time? No problem. A 10-minute stretch, bodyweight exercises during nap time, or even a few squats while brushing your teeth can keep you feeling active.
Click here for six FREE under 10-minute workouts to sneak into your day!
For some, you’ll need something weighted—DBs, wine bottles (oops, I mean water bottles), or even a backpack. Others can be done bodyweight!
2. Be Realistic about Holiday Demands and Your Time
Set goals based on what you can actually achieve. Instead of committing to hour-long workouts, aim for 15-minute sessions a few times a week.
3. Choose The Habits Worth Prioritizing When Life Gets Busy
Choose and stick with just 1-3 habits that make you feel your best, like working out 2 days a week, prepping healthy meals, or maintaining a skincare routine. Let the rest wait until life calms down.
4. Get Creative and Learn to Habit Stack
Combine exercises with everyday tasks so you can sneak in movement without adding to your to-do list. Some ideas:
- Hold a deep squat while brushing your teeth
- Stretch during tummy time
- Practice diaphragmatic breathing at stoplights.
- Do calf raises while washing dishes,
- Engage your core during a meeting or Zoom call, or
- Add lunges while tidying up toys
5. Plan Around Life
Have a busy day? Skip the gym and turn an errand trip into a brisk walk. Or do a family yoga session—even if it’s mostly your toddler climbing on you.
6. Prioritize Getting Rest
Listen to your body. During pregnancy especially, recovery is just as important as movement. More on that ⬇️
Why It’s OK to Scale Back or Skip Workouts When Life Gets Crazy
Let’s get real: Life as a mom (pregnant or otherwise) is full. And during the holidays? It’s next level. Scaling back workouts, or skipping them entirely, is not only okay—it’s often necessary.
It’s important to remember:
- Pregnancy and Motherhood are seasons. Fitness isn’t linear. It ebbs and flows with life’s seasons. Scaling back now doesn’t mean you’re starting over later; it means you’re adapting to what your body and life need right now.
- Rest is productive. Whether you’re growing a baby or chasing a toddler, your body is already working hard. Rest is part of the process, not a setback, and is often a springboard for success down the road.
Reframing your mindset this way can ease your schedule and lighten your mental load, creating emotional space to focus on what truly matters, especially during busy seasons.
You Are Enough: Finding Balance in Holiday Fitness and Life
Motherhood and pregnancy are already workouts. Whether it’s carrying a growing baby, chasing after little ones, or juggling endless tasks, your body is working hard. Skipping a workout or scaling back doesn’t define your commitment or worth.
If you’re the type to put yourself last (stop that!) and need someone to hold you accountable, let’s create a plan that keeps you on the priority list. My sessions are designed to fit into your life as it is right now, giving you the flexibility, encouragement, and practical tools to succeed.
Ready to put yourself back on the to-do list? Book your session here.
Click here for six FREE under 10-minute workouts to sneak into your day!
For some, you’ll need something weighted—DBs, wine bottles (oops, I mean water bottles), or even a backpack. Others can be done bodyweight!