You just had a baby! Congratulations! Whether this is your first child or your fifth, that’s a fantastic accomplishment that you should be proud of. Your body underwent many changes to accommodate your new little one, and it’s important to give yourself some time to recover before you try to get your pre-baby body back.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t start working on getting back in shape. In fact, there are a few things you can do to ease yourself into it and ensure you’re taking care of your postpartum body simultaneously. Here are five ways to get back in shape after pregnancy.
Start with walking
Walking is a great way to ease yourself into getting active after pregnancy. It’s low impact and gentle on your joints, which is essential since your ligaments are still loosened from pregnancy. Walking is also a great way to spend time with your new baby if you’re already feeling stir-crazy being cooped up inside all day. Start with just a few minutes around the block and gradually increase the time and distance as you feel more comfortable. If possible, try to walk outside in the fresh air for some extra Vitamin D and mood-boosting benefits.
Try a postnatal exercise class
Getting back in shape after having a baby can be challenging, but it’s definitely doable with the help of a postnatal exercise class. These classes are designed to help new moms regain their strength and energy and provide a great support system. The workouts are usually moderate in intensity and may include a mix of cardio, strength training, and stretching. Most classes also incorporate some elements of Pilates or yoga. In addition to getting you moving again, postnatal exercise classes can also help you connect with other new moms. So if you’re ready to get back into shape, sign up for a class today. You’ll be glad you did.
Invest in a supportive nursing bra
A supportive nursing bra is one of the most important investments you can make. A good nursing bra will support your breasts as you begin to heal and recover from childbirth. It will also help to minimize any discomfort you may feel as your body adjusts to its new shape. In addition, a nursing bra can help you to feel more confident and comfortable as you start to get back into your workout routine. So if you’re looking for a way to get started on the road to recovery, invest in a supportive nursing bra.
Eat healthily
Eating healthily is one of the best ways to get your body back after pregnancy. This means filling up on nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and avoiding processed foods high in sugar and saturated fat. It can be tough to make healthy choices when you’re short on time, but there are plenty of quick and easy recipes that will help you get the nutrition you need.
You can find recipes online that will help you maintain a healthy eating lifestyle. These can range from vegan food to gluten-free and everything in between. There are also many recipes available that focus on quick and healthy meals. Quick meals are especially important for a mother like you because you might have your hands full while taking care of your baby.
Also, if you’re breastfeeding, eating a healthy diet will help to ensure that your baby gets the nutrients they need. So, if you want to get back in shape after pregnancy, start by making healthy changes to your diet.
Put Your Baby in Childcare
Don’t feel guilty about taking some time away from your baby to focus on taking care of yourself! Putting your little one in childcare at the gym or at home while you take a yoga class or go for a run can help you feel refreshed and reenergized so you can be fully present when you are with them again. And they’ll love spending time socializing with other babies too! Just be sure to do some research ahead of time to find a reputable place that will take good care of your child while you sweat it out.
Take Time for You
Remember that getting back in shape after having a baby is a process that doesn’t happen overnight. Give yourself some grace, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself to “bounce back” right away. Everyone recovers differently and at their own pace, so focus on listening to your body and doing what feels best for you. And most importantly, don’t forget to schedule in some “me time” every once in a while outside of working out so you can recharge both physically and mentally.
There’s no need to put undue pressure on yourself to “bounce back” after pregnancy — focus on listening to your body, doing what feels best for you, and taking things at your own pace! These five tips will help get you started on your journey back to fitness after the baby arrives.
