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5 Simple, Consistent Ways I Lost Postpartum Weight Without the Stress
Hey, fellow moms! If you're reading this, chances are you're in the beautiful yet demanding postpartum phase, navigating new schedules and maybe eyeing a goal of getting fit again. I'm here to share how I managed to shed the baby weight with a few simple, manageable habits—and the best part? It’s all about consistency, not perfection. Here’s what worked for me, and hopefully, it’ll inspire you too.
First things first. Let me tell you how much weight I lost. I was 62 KG before conceiving my baby - Not a very healthy weight considering I'm a tiny 5'2. By the time I was ready to deliver, I was 78 KG and about a month after my baby was born, I was 69 KG. Today, I'm 52 KG - pretty much the weight I was 10 years ago when I met my husband.
Of course, I still have a slight Mama Pooch and thighs I'm not entirely happy with. But I feel GREAT! I am strong, I can run and match pace with my high-energy 3-year old. I can fit into all the chic outfits and crop tops I want and overall, I just feel good about myself.
So let me show you how I did it without any fancy workouts, supplements and diets that involve 5 hours in the kitchen on a weekend.
1. Measure and Track Everything – MyFitnessPal Became My Best Friend
One of the biggest game-changers for me was tracking my meals as accurately as I could. I started logging every bite, sip, and snack in MyFitnessPal. It was eye-opening to see just how much I was actually eating! This app became my accountability partner, keeping me aware of my calorie intake and helping me make mindful choices. By measuring everything, I stayed within a calorie range that supported gradual, sustainable weight loss.
Pro tip: Measure out portions even if it’s tedious at first; it becomes second nature soon. Plus, logging everything makes you think twice before mindlessly snacking! I continue to track everything till date and it's the only way I know to stay on track.
2. Focus on Protein – Your Best Ally for Fat Loss and Satiety
Protein quickly became a priority in my meals. I focused on adding sources like chicken, Greek yogurt, and protein shakes to keep me feeling full, support muscle recovery, and maintain my energy levels. Not only did protein keep me from craving carbs all day, but it also helped me recover faster from workouts.
What I ate: Breakfast might be Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of nuts, lunch was often chicken or turkey with veggies, and I’d blend a quick protein shake if I felt the hunger pangs coming in the afternoon. The more I focused on protein, the less I felt tempted by those quick, sugary snacks.
Pro tip: DO NOT BE SCARED OF CARBS. If you're on the Tracking path like me, make sure you stay within your calorie range and meet your protein and fibre goals. If you go over on carbs and/or fat on some days, while still meeting your calorie and protein + fibre goals, you're good! Carbs give us energy and I ate rice on the regular while losing 17 KG
3. Make Exercise Fit Your Life – Short, Enjoyable Workouts Whenever You Can
With a little one at home, a set workout schedule wasn’t realistic. Instead, I took on a more flexible approach, fitting in 20-minute workouts whenever possible. I stopped stressing about "perfect timing" and found routines that I genuinely enjoyed, so working out didn’t feel like a chore. Sometimes it was a quick HIIT session, other times a yoga flow, and sometimes even a dance video for a fun calorie burn.
The REAL game-changer for me was finding Caroline Girvan on YouTube. She has a variety of workout videos, from easy to really challenging ones, where she does the whole workout with you. You can keep checking your form and she also adds a cool down at the end of each workout. Plus, she's great to look at, doesn't give unnecessary gyaan in her videos and I just generally love her. Do yourself a favour and check her out - If you don't feel like picking up a pair of dumbbells and working out with her, your next pizza is on me.
My advice: Find what you love, be it yoga, Pilates, or a brisk workout video, and don’t worry about doing it at the same time every day. This approach not only keeps workouts stress-free but also easier to stick to.
4. Walk Every Day – A Calorie Burn and a Mental Refresh
Daily walks were a lifesaver, both for my body and my mind. Whether it was with my husband or alone while the baby napped, I aimed for a medium-paced walk that could burn up to 200 calories. These walks did wonders for clearing my head, giving me some “me time,” and staying active without overthinking it. Plus, it was a great way to connect with my spouse after hectic days. On other days, I'd call my best friend and gossip about anything and everything - giving me a much-needed slice of adult conversation in the day that wasn't baby-centric.
Why it matters: Walking is gentle on the body but highly effective. Start small, but aim to make it a daily ritual. Not only will you get your steps in, but you’ll feel recharged too!
5. Take a Weekly Break – Balance, Not Restriction, Is Key
One of my favourite habits was allowing myself one outing each week where I could eat and drink what I wanted, within reason. I’d pre-track my usual go-to treats, like two drinks and some shareable starters (Chilli chicken or pizza were my top choices). This way, I’d enjoy my night without feeling like I was sabotaging my progress. Having that one night off helped me avoid the monotony of a strict diet, gave a tired Mama a break and kept my spirits up.
The takeaway: Enjoy your time out! This balance made the journey sustainable and enjoyable. You don’t have to be “perfect” to get results; just stay consistent and mindful.