Getting back to exercise after kids

[bluebird3]

Hi, just looking for advice for getting back into exercise after a long break. I haven't exercised properly in probably 5 years since I had my first baby. I wouldn't say I was in great shape before but was ok. I have gained weight and lost all my fitness. I don't feel like I'm fit enough to just join a gym and start going to classes/trying things on my own.

Just wondering where to start? I feel really slow, out of breath, I have stiff joints, I'm inflexible. I need an app or a plan or something that will show me what to do - how to start slowly and build up fitness/strength/flexibility. Does anyone have a programmes or app recommendations? Should I get a personal trainer? I'm late 30s but feel about 20 years older and I really want to make a change.

I felt like this a couple of years ago. I did this -

Lost weight - simple calorie deficit, logged on MFP.

Did yoga once or twice a week.

After I got to a weight I was happy with, I found a PT and did 2 hours (1 hour, twice a week) - one hour of cardio, one hour of weights. Hated cardio, LOVED weights, so ended up with both sessions being weights based. I broke my foot a while ago, so couldn't do anything, ended up putting weight on 🤯. So, I'm now starting again, and really happy with results so far! Once I'm at my target weight again, I'll up calories to maintenance levels and continue with weights, pilates and 10k steps a day. Obvs, life can get in the way and my perfect routine doesn't always happen, but I know it's possible, so I don't lose heart. Good luck!

Thanks for the reply. This sounds like a manageable plan. I know I'll feel better if I lose some weight first. It's so hard to get started. I've used MFP before - will start tracking calories again. I definitely need a diet overhaul but maybe just calorie counting at first will help me redefine what I should be eating in a day.

Sounds like a PT would work if you're struggling to get started. Some can do nutrition as well as training. Then it can be focused and specific to your needs rather than stitching bits together yourself.

if You’re based in the UK I would recommend the nutracheck app for calorie counting and food tracking, they have more UK based food than MFP and the macros are more accurate.
You can log 10 items a day for free or I think it’s about £5 a month for the full version