There’s no denying that pregnancy and childbirth can take a real toll on a woman’s body, even for those with the tiniest baby bumps. Your body is stretched to its limit to create something truly amazing – your baby! But in the weeks after giving birth, it’s natural for many women to start to wonder when they’ll be able to return to their original shapes. A lack of sleep, hormonal shifts, and breast feeding can make this seem impossible at first. Fortunately, there are a number of tactics you can take, from easing back into an exercise routine to getting a surgical “mommy makeover.”
After carrying around the extra weight of a baby for nine months, it’s understandable that new moms are more than eager to get back in shape ASAP!
But remember that it took you nine months to put the weight on – so it will take some time to come off as well. Give yourself time for recovery first, and then start with gentle stretches or leisurely strolls to start moving again.
Even a short walk each day will boost your circulation and prep your body for more vigorous exercise later on. You should be ready for more after your six week check up, when you can combine aerobic exercises with healthy food. Breastfeeding can burn as much as 500 calories a day as well.
Once your ready to exercise more, whenever that may be, there are lots of options to consider.
If childcare is an issue, you may want to consider joining a local Buggy Buddies group where groups of new mums get together and go for long energetic walks with their babies - a great way to make new friends and get yourself fit!
There are also numerous exercise classes that incorporate baby too, meaning you don't need to worry about finding childcare.
You could also consider joining a gym or local health club, where you may be able to incorporate swimming into your exercise regime too.
If getting out to the gym is an issue, did you know that a much better option than paying outright for home equipment yourself is to hire equipment to use at home? Many places such as Hire Fitness offer this service, they even ship to Ireland here http://www.hire-fitness.ie/
If childcare isn't so much of an issue then the world is your oyster! You can join up to local exercise classes - whether you choose to go fun with Zumba, get serious with body combat or take a more relaxed approach with yoga there's something for everyone! No matter how you choose to get back to your former fitness level after giving birth, just remember not to overdo it - slow and steady wins the race!
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