Fatherhood is a life-changing experience. It brings joy, love, laughter, and warmth. However, sleepless nights and upended schedules are also a part of this journey. The team of Evan Bass Men’s Clinic mentions that it is normal for new fathers to be torn between the ever-changing needs of an infant, the challenges of supporting the partner, as well as their own self-care. New fathers must try their best to balance their time and energy. After all, fatherhood is an endurance race, not a sprint. Maintaining good health and fitness would help a man to sustainably serve others, including their baby.
Evan Bass Men’s Clinic highlights tips that can help new fathers stay fit and healthy
Fatherhood is a thoroughly immersive experience. It provides a man with a sense of purpose and meaning, while also enabling them to confront their limitations in often-unexpected ways. While spending time caring for the newborn is important, a new dad must also try to take out time to develop habits that keep them healthy. Here are a few tips they can follow:
- Squeeze it in: Even if a new dad has about 10 to 20 minutes spare, there are many workouts he can try to work up a sweat. Getting the body moving, even for a small amount of time, can stimulate the metabolism and make a man feel better. If possible, one should try to engage in an exercise they really like, whether it is swimming, running, cycling, or yoga. Entering fatherhood can be a taxing time, and hence it would be better to prioritize an exercise that is comfortable and stress-free.
- Consistency over intensity: Rather than engaging in an intense workout at the gym once a week, one should try to follow a consistent exercise routine that involves moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. This workout can be something simple as cycling to the shops or taking a walk in the nearest park.
- Band together: If possible, one may start an exercise group with others in their parents’ group. This would help new fathers to stay accountable, as well as create a supportive environment with others in the same boat.
- Avoid snacking: When one is feeling drained, it is tempting to grab a quick snack. However, common snacks like biscuits, crackers, and muffins are often high in calories and low in nutrients compared to balanced meals. To avoid temptation, it is better to keep such items out of the pantry. Instead, new parents should try stocking up on healthier alternatives like nuts, seeds, fresh fruit, and wholesome dips like hummus paired with vegetables:
The team of Evan Bass Men’s Clinic mentions that men should consider following the habits discussed above over the long term, for their own well-being as well as the benefit of their child. Children naturally absorb the behaviors they observe, so modelling balanced eating can have a lasting impact. When introducing solids, a child’s eating patterns are often shaped by the overall family approach to food. Involving children in simple food-related activities, like planting herbs, shopping for ingredients, or helping in the kitchen, can foster a positive relationship with healthy eating. These shared experiences not only encourage better habits but also create valuable family moments.
