You hold in your hands the most perfect creature in the world, which melts you as if you were a chocolate candy left in the midday sun.
You are fabulous and will do great in the adventure called motherhood. But do you know what makes a mother even more amazing?
The answer is simple, but we often forget about it. It is self-care.
Want to feel sexy anywhere, anytime? That’s why physical exercise after childbirth is key.
It’s time to roll up your sleeves and reach for the leggings and bustier that are sitting shamelessly at the bottom of your wardrobe. No more laziness and no more excuses. Let’s get started!
Suitable exercises
- Walking: We start with something you have already mastered to perfection. Don’t underestimate walking;
It is natural and wonderful for fast recovery after childbirth. Even a few laps in the park with the stroller can do wonders for your body and give you the chance to escape the chaos at home (at least for a little while);
- Yoga: If you’ve ever wondered how come your neighbor has three kids and is so level-headed, we have the answer. No, she hasn’t been sipping wine since this morning. She’s probably relaxing her mind and soul in another, slightly healthier way.
Yoga is the perfect option to reconnect with your body and strengthen the pelvic floor, which played a major role during childbirth. Choose gentle exercises that won’t overexert you, but will help you recover and feel strong and flexible again;
- Exercises in water: they are extremely suitable after childbirth because they load the body in a gentle way and reduce the risk of injury. You can swim, do aqua aerobics or just float in the pool.
Exercises to avoid
- Crunches: not now, please!
We understand that you want to see your abs flat again, but let’s be honest – crunches are not the best way to achieve it, especially right after giving birth. These intense exercises can create more problems than solutions, such as complicating diastasis (the separation of the abdominal muscles). Instead, focus on lighter ones that will strengthen the abdominal area without putting too much strain on the body.
- Intense cardio workouts: leave them for later
Dreaming of that one-hour cardio workout that makes you feel like a top fitness influencer at TikTok?
Frankly, now is not the time for such extreme loads. Your body needs time to recover. Exercising too intensely can lead to exhaustion and even injury. Gradually increase the level of exertion, starting with lighter cardio activities such as walking or light jogging.
- Weights: take your time
Lifting weights can be a great way to build strength, but it’s important not to immediately throw on the heaviest dumbbells in the gym. Especially if you’ve had a C-section. Lifting weights can put too much strain on your body and slow down the recovery process. Start with lighter exercises and gradually increase the weight over time.
How long after birth can you start exercising?
Did we get you high? We are glad. Now it’s time for the most important question, “When can you start?” It all depends on the birth – normal or by C-section.
If you have gone through the first one and everything has gone smoothly, you can start with light exercises in a few weeks. But if you’ve gone through a C-section, your body deserves a little more recovery time – about 6 to 8 weeks.
The most important thing is to listen to your body – it knows best when it is ready for action. There’s no need to rush – your health and well-being come first. Don’t jump straight into heavy workouts, but start with light and enjoyable exercises until you gradually return to more intense activity.
Remember to have fun along the way – be patient with yourself and approach with genuine love. Your body has come a tremendous way and deserves all the care and attention it can get to fully recover. There is nothing more important than being healthy and happy for your little treasure!
