Why Mums Who Move Lead Differently
Motherhood has a way of demanding everything from you. Your energy, your time, your body - all spoken for by tiny humans and the invisible to-do list that somehow grows longer by the hour.
But here’s a truth not enough mums hear:
You are already a leader. And movement is the tool that helps you lead with more clarity, calm, and confidence.
Movement Isn’t About “Bouncing Back” - It’s About Moving Forward
In the thick of early motherhood, I was exhausted, touched out, and running on caffeine. The only time I felt like me again? When I moved. Whether it was a slow walk with the buggy or a stretch on the kitchen floor: movement gave me back my mind.
It wasn't about shrinking my body. It was about reclaiming space in my day - and in my identity.
The Mindset Shift: Movement = Leadership Training
Here’s where the magic lies: Every walk, stretch, or run isn’t just exercise - it’s leadership training in disguise.
You’re choosing consistency in chaos.
You’re building self-trust, one small promise kept.
You’re proving (again and again) that you can do hard things, with heart.
That quiet self-trust? That’s the foundation of leadership. And you, my friend, are already leading - whether it’s through the school WhatsApp group, a group chat pep talk, or organising a walk for friends.
The Science Behind Movement and Leadership
You’ve probably felt it before — that post-run clarity, the way a walk clears your head, how your fuse feels just a little bit longer after a workout. But it’s not just in your imagination.
1. Movement Strengthens the Prefrontal Cortex (Your Leadership HQ)
Your prefrontal cortex - the part of the brain responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation - lights up during and after physical activity. This is the same area activated when you:
Solve problems
Navigate conflict with your partner/kids
Hold boundaries
Make values-based decisions
In short, moving your body sharpens the very skills that make you a strong, compassionate leader.
🧠 Neuroscience research shows that consistent aerobic exercise increases the volume and activity of the prefrontal cortex - especially in women.
2. Exercise Regulates Cortisol and Increases Resilience
Motherhood is a high-stress environment. Daily movement acts as a pressure valve for your nervous system - helping to manage cortisol (the stress hormone) and reduce emotional reactivity.
Less snap. More strategy.
That resilience carries into everything else:
Responding instead of reacting during toddler meltdowns
Bouncing back from setbacks
Staying emotionally grounded in chaotic seasons
3. It Boosts Confidence and Self-Efficacy
Every time you move, even for five minutes, you cast a vote for your own capability.
You show up for yourself.
You keep a promise to your body.
You remember you’re not just "mum"- you’re you, too.
This builds self-efficacy, or your belief in your ability to influence your own life. And guess what? That belief is the backbone of leadership.
👟 Studies in the Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology confirm that physical activity directly boosts self-efficacy and leadership behaviour - especially in women.
Why This Matters So Much for Mums
Because too often, the story we’re sold is:
“You’ll lead once you’re rested. Once the kids are older. Once you have more time.”
But here’s the truth: 👉 You’re already leading.
Movement just helps you do it with more energy, emotional regulation, and vision.
And when you lead from a place of self-trust, presence, and clarity?
Your family feels it.
Your friends feel it.
Your future - career, passion, purpose - becomes possible.
Movement isn’t just a tool for feeling better. It’s the foundation that helps you lead yourself - so you can lead others.
How to Start Leading Through Movement Today
Redefine Movement:
Give it the kudos it deserves and recognise it as a tool that has the power to enable you to more. Cos you know what? Even if your motivation is to to shape up and get healthier, it’ll happen in all areas of your life anyway.
Move to Model, Not to Shrink
Your kids don’t need a “fitspo” mum. They need to see that taking care of yourself is normal. People around you need to see the behaviours you adopt. Model the behaviours you expect from yourself and make that normal.
Reframe the Guilt
Guilt often shows up when we’re stepping into growth. It doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It means you’re doing something brave. It means you’re placing value on yourself in the same way you would expect others too in your team as a leader. It means you understand that you’re being the best version of yourself, and you know what? Your team will follow you.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Movement isn’t about discipline or six-packs. It’s about coming back to yourself so you can show up more fully for everything (and everyone) else.
💬 I’d love to hear from you: How does movement help you lead? What shifts in your parenting, work, or confidence when you take time for yourself?
DM me the word LEAD on Instagram, or drop a comment. I read every one.
Because this isn’t just about workouts.
It’s about reclaiming your energy, your identity, and your power.