My client, Rebeca Barker, has consistently demonstrated an impressive commitment to her fitness.

I've always admired her ability to prioritise her workouts — a testament to her dedication to wellbeing. I was Intrigued by how motherhood has influenced Rebeca’s fitness journey and asked her to share her experiences and insights on the intersection of exercise and parenting.

How has exercise helped you build stamina?

Since starting my fitness journey after having my youngest son — now 4 years old — my body feels strong and capable of handling two rambunctious boys.

When I started training with Betty six months postpartum, my body was weak and tired. As time went on and I continued my exercise regime, I had a very proud moment. My baby was gaining weight and growing by the minute yet he started to feel lighter each time I squatted to pick him up.

I could carry him for longer periods and even breastfeed with one arm and cook with the other with no trouble at all. It was then I realised I was getting stronger and all the work I had put in was really paying off.

As my children get older they are full of endless energy that can be so draining but the stronger I get and the more I exercise I find it easier to keep up with them and play on a level they enjoy the most.

How has physical activity helped your mental health as a mom?

Not only has exercise helped me physically with the stamina it takes to parent two young boys but it has helped me tremendously mentally. Every day that includes exercise is a good day. I find my mood is better, my patience is a lot higher and my sleep is improved on days that I work out.

It’s hard to prioritise your needs as a mother. There is always something that can be done for your children, work around the house, admin, etc. The days I choose to exercise I feel accomplished and satisfied that I took the time to do something productive for myself.

How has your fitness influenced your children's health habits?

My children come down to the gym with me and are so intrigued by the idea of working out being an activity. Both my husband and I are active in making deliberate exercise a part of our life and the children have grown used to the routine.

They watch as I increase my weights, sweat and breathe heavy. It’s a great learning experience for them to understand what is going on in your body when you exercise and why it’s important.

They now recognise and identify times they are exercising in their daily activities, such as riding bikes, playing football, or even jumping on the trampoline. They will make a point to tell me they are working out. It’s something I am proud to have rub off on them and hope that they are receiving the same benefits that I do from exercise. Habits develop early in childhood so the goal is to make this one stick.

How do you find time for exercise as a mom and what is your advice?

Plan it ahead of time. Put it in your diary like any other appointment you have. Hold yourself accountable and exercise in groups or with a trainer so others can hold you accountable. Start small, if 20 minutes is all you can do, start there. It’s better than nothing.

Has exercise helped you connect with other moms?

Definitely. My friends and I talk about our exercise routine regularly. We group up for Pilates or yoga classes and motivate each other. We talk about what works, what doesn’t work and how our bodies respond to certain types of workouts. We really support each other when it comes to exercise. We also try and find ways to incorporate it into social events. I hosted a yoga brunch at my house last year and the response was overwhelmingly positive.

How has exercise helped your body positivity post-pregnancy?

In every way I can possibly imagine. My muscles are stronger, my pelvic floor has been rehabilitated, my skin is tighter, I could go on and on. I was very fit before having children and lost a lot of muscle during and between pregnancies. Regular exercise has helped me gain my muscles back and increase stability and overall strength. I’m always so impressed by my body and muscle memory.

How has exercise boosted your energy as a mother?

There is a noticeable difference in my energy levels on the days I exercise. I think it’s a common misconception that exercise can exhaust you. While certain types can, moderate daily exercise has proved to be one of the best tools I use to boost my energy levels.

On days I am sluggish and tired I find exercise works better than coffee. I always say, you never regret a workout. The plethora of benefits you reap when incorporating exercise in your daily or even weekly routine as a mother are overwhelming positive.

I would recommend it for each and every mother out there. Start small, go at your own pace, hold yourself accountable and be proud for each and every little achievement you make.

Keep going and B-Active For Life!

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook