How to Begin Exercising Postpartum
Baby is finally here, and your days look completely different than they once did. This time in a mother's life is crucial, yet all attention is on her baby. Feed, sleep, change, repeat. For the first year of a baby’s life, there are numerous doctor appointments to check up on your baby’s health, yet - moms only have one 6-week “clearance” appointment.
It’s time to change the narrative and think about yourself a bit. You are in a place where you want to start dedicating some time to yourself and begin working out, yet you don’t know where to even begin.
According to the ACOG, “If you had a healthy pregnancy and a normal vaginal delivery, you should be able to start exercising again soon after the baby is born. Usually, it is safe to begin exercising a few days after giving birth—or as soon as you feel ready. However, if you had a cesarean birth or complications, ask your ob-gyn when it is safe to begin exercising again”.
The best place to start is with breathing exercises and core connection exercises. Starting here is where you begin to engage, build, and strengthen yourself from the inside out. You can also take 20-30 minute walks and use this time to expose your baby to Vitamin D and fresh air. Once you begin implementing these exercises into your daily routine and feel stronger, you can start to follow classes online or join a gym.
When looking for exercise routines and classes, start slowly and work toward higher-intensity routines. For example, if you are working out at the gym, have a trainer guide you on properly using the machines to prevent yourself from getting hurt.
If you are joining a group class, let the instructor know where you are in your postpartum journey so they can give you alternative options to inappropriate exercises.
Remember that the benefits of working out are HUGE! They will:
Help strengthen and tone your muscles
Boost your energy & libido
Help to prevent PPD
Promote better sleep
Relieve stress
Help you lose those extra pounds!
Check out our article on postpartum exercises for more information on appropriate exercises you can perform after having a baby. If you have any questions regarding postpartum exercises, please reach out to us