Exercise Tips for New Moms
Posted on November 15, 2013
Exercise may be the last thing on your mind after just giving birth but it has a number of benefits to helping you feel back to your pre-baby self. If you continued your exercise plan right up until birth you can return to exercising about 6 weeks after. However, if you had a C-section or complications during delivery you should wait a little longer and always consult your physician first before beginning any exercise program.
Regardless of your situation, you should begin slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts based on how you are feeling (remember the talk test). Try activities that you can do with your baby, like going for a walk or actually exercising with your baby as the weight (it’s not as scary as it sounds). Also it is usually a good idea to add in Kegel exercises. They are easy to do and can be done almost anywhere.
For moms who are breastfeeding, it is important to know that it is fine to exercise at a moderate level. Research has shown that exercising at a maximal intensity level increases the lactic acid found in your breast milk which some argue makes the milk less palatable for your baby. If you find that your baby doesn’t feed well after you exercise then plan to do a feeding before your workout (which may also make you feel more comfortable exercising).
Remember these three tips and you should be well on your way to feeling and looking your best!
• Begin slowly and gradually increase your pace.
• Stop exercising if you feel pain.
• Drink plenty of water.
