Pregnancy Postpartum: Starting to Exercise
You just gave birth and you've got your hands full with a new baby. Exercise is probably at the bottom of your "to do" list after changing baby's diaper, feeding baby, and getting some rest!
Even if it's hard to motivate (or to find the time), it's worth the effort. Postpartum pregnancy exercise will not only help you shed the pregnancy pounds, but it will also help to strengthen your abdominal muscles (which, let's face it, have been through a lot these past 9 months!) and ultimately, boost your spirits and your energy level.
Of course, check with your doctor before beginning any postpartum pregnancy exercise routine. Chances are that if you exercised before and during pregnancy and had a vaginal delivery, you'll be able to return to the gym just days after delivery (or as soon as the doc clears you and you're up for it!).
If you've had a C-section, a complicated birth, or have other medical issues, you'll obviously need to get the OK from your doctor before hitting the track. Also, exercising while breastfeeding is generally fine. But you should be extra good about drinking enough fluids during and after exercising.
Don't overdo it. Keep in mind that your joints and ligaments will still be loose for about three to five months postpartum pregnancy. Take it slowly. Start out with stretching and strengthening or walking around the block!
You also might consider taking a postpartum pregnancy exercise class or a class where you can bring your baby (they make great weights!). Before long, you'll work your way to a buff post-baby body!
report abuseEven if it's hard to motivate (or to find the time), it's worth the effort. Postpartum pregnancy exercise will not only help you shed the pregnancy pounds, but it will also help to strengthen your abdominal muscles (which, let's face it, have been through a lot these past 9 months!) and ultimately, boost your spirits and your energy level.
Of course, check with your doctor before beginning any postpartum pregnancy exercise routine. Chances are that if you exercised before and during pregnancy and had a vaginal delivery, you'll be able to return to the gym just days after delivery (or as soon as the doc clears you and you're up for it!).
If you've had a C-section, a complicated birth, or have other medical issues, you'll obviously need to get the OK from your doctor before hitting the track. Also, exercising while breastfeeding is generally fine. But you should be extra good about drinking enough fluids during and after exercising.
Don't overdo it. Keep in mind that your joints and ligaments will still be loose for about three to five months postpartum pregnancy. Take it slowly. Start out with stretching and strengthening or walking around the block!
You also might consider taking a postpartum pregnancy exercise class or a class where you can bring your baby (they make great weights!). Before long, you'll work your way to a buff post-baby body!
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