Core and restore

Making the Most of Maternity Leave in Silicon Valley

Maybe you have six weeks of leave. Maybe you have six months. Maybe you’re piecing together vacation days, parental leave and a return-to-work plan while trying to figure out life with a new baby.

Around here, it can feel like everyone has a plan. But once your baby arrives, even the best plan might give way to feeding, healing, laundry and wondering how it’s already 2 p.m.

You don’t need to make the most of every minute. Here are a few ways to make this time feel good for you, however long your leave lasts.

Get out of the house

Leaving home with a newborn can feel like a major project. Start small. Walk around your neighborhood, grab a coffee or meet a friend at the park. If your baby cries halfway through, that’s okay. You still got out.

Find your people

Your coworkers are back in meetings, and your friends might be on different schedules. Having other moms to talk to on a weekday morning can make a big difference. You deserve a place where you can show up tired, late or with a baby who needs to be held the whole time.

Move at your own pace

There’s no deadline to “get your body back.” Choose movement that feels supportive and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance as you recover. A short walk counts. Gentle stretching counts. A class at the park counts, too.

If you’re wondering where to start, Fourth Trimester: Core & Restore | Connect offers a gentle way to ease into movement and meet other moms. When you’re ready for more, try Stroller Strides or Stroller Barre. And you’re welcome to try any of our classes. We can modify the workout for you.

Leave room for ordinary days

You don’t need an activity planned for every day of leave, even if it’s only six weeks. Some days you’ll get out and feel energized. Other days you’ll feed your baby, rest and order lunch on your phone. Both count.

A little rhythm can help: a regular walk, a class at the park or coffee with another mom. Keep what works and let it change as your baby grows.

Take care of yourself, too

Drink the water. Eat lunch. Ask someone to hold the baby while you shower. Make space for a conversation that isn’t about sleep schedules. Your needs still matter.

Whether you’re counting down the weeks until you return to work or still figuring out what comes next, you don’t have to spend your leave alone.

Ready to try a class? Here’s what to do.

  1. Check in with your healthcare provider about exercise. Many moms discuss returning to workouts at a postpartum visit around six weeks after a vaginal birth or 8 weeks after a C-section. Your timing depends on your recovery, so ask what’s right for you. Gentle movement may be possible sooner.
  2. Try a free FIT4MOM SVC class. Email us and we’ll help you choose one that fits where you are right now.
  3. Bring the stroller you already have. You don’t need a fancy jogging stroller to join us.
  4. Pack your baby carrier. It’s handy if your baby decides they’d rather be held.
  5. Wear clothes you can move in. No cute matching set required. Comfortable workout clothes and supportive workout shoes are perfect.
  6. Have fun! You can take breaks, tend to your baby and get to know the moms around you.

Whether you’re counting down the weeks until you return to work or still figuring out what comes next, you don’t have to spend your leave alone.

Come find your village at FIT4MOM Silicon Valley Central. Bring your baby, move at your own pace and meet local moms who get it. Email sunnyvale@fit4momteam.com to try your first class free. ❤️