How to Ease Into Working Out Post-Baby
By Genevieve Cunningham
Anyone who has children loves them to pieces and is grateful to have them, but let's not forget that children are a lot of work. This is especially true for the mother. Even before baby is born, pregnancy and childbirth take a toll on the mother's health. Once baby arrives it's tough to get back in shape and feel like yourself again. If you have a new little one at home and you're eager to begin working out again, take a look at these tips for easing into your exercise routine post-baby.
Start With Walking
Walking may not feel like a workout, but after baby arrives it definitely will! Walking is very low impact, and beginning with something low-impact is important. Your body is still flooded with the hormone relaxin, which loosens joints and ligaments. If you begin an exercise routine that is too rigorous, you are more likely to be injured. Instead, leave baby with Grandma Ruth or put baby in a stroller and go for a nice easy stroll. This will get your body used to moving again but will be easy enough to avoid injury and pain.
Look for Gentle Yoga
Yoga is good for everyone, and the postpartum mom is no different. Yoga comes in many forms. It can be incredibly challenging, or you can choose an easier route. If you've just brought home a baby, it's probably best to choose a gentler form of yoga. You can find these at your local gym, at a yoga studio, or even online. Just remember to be very gentle on your body. It will take some time to build up resistance and strength, but yoga will help you feel a little more like yourself without overdoing it.
Take a Swim
Once you've been cleared by your doctor, getting in a swimming pool can be very relaxing for the postpartum mom. The water takes stress off the joints and makes movement easier. Whether you choose to swim laps or join a water aerobics class, getting in the pool can really help you get back into shape after baby. Please remember that this exercise routine should only be done once your doctor gives you the OK. Getting in the water too soon after baby could lead to infection, so be smart and listen to your doctor's advice.
Getting back in shape after baby is tough. Don't forget that it's a journey and not a race. Be easy on yourself, listen to your body, and heed its advice. If you push too hard too fast, you’ll only be out of the game for longer. Use these exercise to ease back into it, and you'll be feeling like yourself in no time.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Castle Rock, Colo.