Calling all new moms: Here is how you can stay fit after delivery

While welcoming your baby can be both a joyous and a stressful moment, it is integral to respect your body’s magical birth-giving powers and work on bringing it back.
child development
Keep a close eye on your child's development. Image Courtesy: Shutterstock
Team Health Shots Updated: 11 May 2021, 02:46 am IST
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Pregnancy and motherhood is a fun roller-coaster ride that may sometimes get overwhelming for the newbie mommy. From taking care of your little one 24*7 to managing changes in your own body can be pretty daunting at times! 

Where some mommies prefer to take a break and relax before they get back to their pre-pregnancy avatar, others may want to start to regain their strength, energy and not to forget to fit into their favourite clothes. No matter what your reasons are, exercising is a great way to feel good about yourself and this post makes endeavours in helping you know all about exercising post-delivery!

Here’s why you should exercise after delivery
You may think what is all this haste and hurry about exercising after delivery as you can always start whenever you want! Well, apart from losing the extra weight that you gained during your pregnancy journey, of course by keeping a tab at your calorie intake too, exercising is utterly important for a newbie mommy. 

pregnancy weight
Don’t let the weighing scale move too much post-pregnancy. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Indulging in some exercising routine can tone and strengthen abdominal muscles, boost energy levels, improve cardiovascular health and may even help you snooze better. Also, postpartum exercises may aid in relieving postpartum depression and stress.

When should you begin!
Most first time mothers may not know the right time to begin exercising! Well, if you have had a normal or vaginal delivery (without any complications) then you may start after four to six weeks after your delivery.

However, if you have had a C-section delivery, you may have to wait for a few weeks before you start exercising. Always consult your doctor before starting any form of physical exercise after delivery.

Here are some exercises that you may try:

1. Walking
It may not sound like a workout but it is a great way to feel energised, especially when your body is still recovering from childbirth. Start with small strolls and gradually work your way up to longer and brisker walks. Walking is without a doubt one of the safest ways to begin exercising. Carry your baby in a sling for the added impact in the later stages and for more calorie burnout!

walk
Longer and healthier life is just a 30-minute walk away. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

2. Abdominal exercises
One of the easiest but effective exercises to tone and strengthen your tummy muscles is by doing abdominal exercises. Be in any position you feel comfortable in- sitting, standing or lying down on your side. Inhale deeply as you push your abdominal muscles towards your spine. Hold your breath for a few seconds and release. Repeat this 8 to 10 times.

3. Kegel exercises
Kegel exercises are very effective in toning your pelvic and vaginal muscles. You can do these exercises anytime and anywhere and no one will come to know that you are practising kegel exercises.

kegel exercises
Anyone can do Kegel exercises. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Simply squeeze and lift the muscles around your vagina for a few seconds and release. You have to imitate the movement as if you are trying to stop your pee. You can repeat this 8 to 10 times.

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Some other exercises that you can try post pregnancy also include the following:

Few other exercises that you can include in your exercise regime post-delivery include, yoga, cycling, low-intensity aerobics, light-weight training, Pilates, and swimming (after the bleeding stops).

Also, listen:

While your baby becomes the centre of your universe, there is no denying that most of your time will go in taking care of your newborn. However, the impact of a good workout cannot be undermined since self-care is of utmost priority. Ask your partner, family or friends to help you in taking out time for a workout session. 

You may sometimes find it a tad bit difficult in sneaking out some time for yourself, but don’t give up. Stay motivated on your journey towards a fitter you! More importantly, always check out with your doctor before starting any exercising routine or workout to avoid any complications.

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