babyminding

- By Katie Moore

New moms may find that exercise is harder than ever. The postpartum period is a very sensitive time, but as long as the doctor gives the green light, a good workout will actually improve mood and help with weight management. A mother should talk with her doctor about her post-delivery weight loss plans, much like she discussed post-delivery plans for baby, like circumcision and umbilical cord blood banking.

A doctor can assist a mother in coming up with the best plan for her body. New mothers may have to adjust their exercise schedules, but with a few simple workout habits they can fit daily activity into their busy schedules.

Exercise Duration
Exercise sessions don’t have to be lengthy. It may be more convenient to break them up into smaller segments. As noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, even a 10-minute exercise session makes a difference if it is repeated throughout the day. Women in the postpartum period can ease back into exercise by working out in smaller segments and gradually increasing the length as they are able.

Exercise Intensity
Even moms who exercised regularly before pregnancy and delivery may find that high-intensity exercise is more difficult after having a baby. Moms in the first six weeks postpartum should avoid high-intensity workouts and stick with lower intensity exercises, like walking or perhaps light jogging. Low- and moderate-intensity workout DVDs that are designed for pregnant women are also ideal in the postpartum period.

Fitting It In
Some moms may find it difficult to fit exercise into their daily routine. New mothers can get some exercise by integrating their baby into their workout. For example, taking a fast-paced walk with the baby in the stroller is a great way to get fit and also have some time outside the house. Once the baby is a bit older, many gyms have babysitting services that allow mom to get a workout while the baby is still on the premises. Having a spouse, family member or friend watch the baby is another way to make sure new moms get the exercise they need.

New moms should always discuss any exercise plans with their doctor if they are still within the first six weeks postpartum. Moms who had complications during birth or a cesarean section may need to wait longer to exercise than other women. Although some women may need to modify their previous exercise habits, starting slow will allow the body to adjust and heal properly.

About the Author

“Katie Moore has written and submitted this article. Katie is an active blogger who discusses the topics of, motherhood, children, fitness, health and all other things Mommy. She enjoys writing, blogging, and meeting new people! To connect with Katie contact her via her blog, Moore From Katie or her twitter, @moorekm26.”