Having a baby can take a huge toll on your body, but that doesn’t mean that the things you used to do are completely out of bounds. If you haven’t been feeling like yourself after giving up your exercise routine, then help is at hand.
It’s definitely possible for women to get back into fitness after giving birth, though everyone’s circumstances will be different. Therefore, it’s important to check with your doctor before starting any new workout routines.
If you’ve received the all-clear from a medical professional and are looking for some gentle exercises that you can get started with, check out the list in this blog.
Don’t forget, if you’re feeling nervous or unsure where to start, you can always get a personal trainer in London who will help you to safely get back into fitness.
Walking
Often the best place to start when it comes to postpartum exercise, walking is incredibly low risk and often encouraged by health professionals.
While you might not be able to cover long distances, make sure you’re getting out and about every so often for a stroll around your local area.
You can always invite another adult to come along with you for support if you think you might need it. It’s also a really nice way to bond with your new baby and the fresh air will benefit both of you.
Yoga
If you’re looking for something more involved than simply walking, yoga could be the next best step.
If you are already familiar with yoga practice you can add exercise resistance bands set to your routine for some variety on your poses. Resistance bands are great if you are looking to take your practice to the next level.
However, it’s important to note that not all yoga will be suitable, so make sure you look out for postpartum yoga classes and speak to your instructor before attending if you have any special needs.
Not only will yoga help you to stretch your muscles and improve your mobility, but it will promote a greater sense of mental wellbeing.
Being a mum can be really hard work, so it’s important to take some time for yourself and relax. Yoga can be a great gateway into meditation as well, which is something you’ll be able to practice at home.
Swimming
Going for a swim can benefit your whole body, as all your muscles will be working as you do laps in the pool.
Because it’s a very low impact workout, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about injuring yourself. You’ll be able to swim as slowly or as quickly as you like, so don’t rush things if you’re feeling a little bit worse for wear.
Sometimes local aquatics centres hold gentle water aerobics sessions that might appeal to you more than swimming lengths. If these are specifically for new mums, you might even make some new friends.
Dance
If you’re eager to get back to the gym and tone up but aren’t sure you’re up to it, dance could be a great way to build some muscle and improve your cardio.
Whether you attend a beginner’s ballet session or enrol in Zumba, dancing can lift your mood as well as improve your physical wellbeing and might be a welcomed form of stress relief for you.
Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.