Getting your body back after giving birth
“When is my body going to be back to normal?” That is a great question! I know I
asked it repeatedly after the birth of my kids. There are plenty of myths out there
on the best way to get back into shape, but let’s face it most of them don’t work.
Unless you have a personal trainer as these celebrities do then take some of the
next few things down and keep them in mind the next time you say “when is my body
going to be back to normal?”
- Do not start to exercise before 6 weeks post partum. Your body needs time to heal.
- Remember it took 9 months to put it on; most likely, it will take 9 months to take
it off.
- Make sure you don’t start an exercise program to soon, exhausting yourself to soon
will discourage you in the end. Between a new baby and an intense workout routine,
you will end up gaining more weight.
- Dieting is a great way to lose weight, as long as you are not breastfeeding. When
breastfeeding you should continue to eat at least 1800 calories a day. You need
to make sure you baby is getting the nutrients that he/she needs. When breastfeeding,
you should never lose more than 1 pound a week.
- If breastfeeding, you can get back in shape by starting a nice exercise routine.
Walking is a great way to exercise. You can even take the baby for a walk if you
are staying at home with your new little one.
- Pelvic tips and sit up are great for tightening up your abs. If you had a c-section
then you might need to do modified sit-ups with a pillow
Remember regardless of what exercise you start, be wise, with an injury you could
end up sidelined for months and end up worse off than when you started. So don’t
put much stress on your joints. Pay attention to the warning signs of trouble and
see medical attention if any of these symptoms appear:
- Excessive bleeding
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Extreme shortness of breath
- Exhaustion after even mild exercise
- Muscle soreness that does not go away within a day or 2
NOTE:
Remember to consult your physician before starting any dieting or exercise program.
