How to get back into exercise after giving birth

This is a collaborative post

If you have recently had a baby – congratulations! You are embarking on one of the most important journeys of your life. But just because your new child is going to be your whole world doesn’t mean there’s now no room for anything else. It’s essential to take care of both your mind and body, no matter how much time your little one takes up. If you have been trying to find your way back to exercise lately but haven’t quite managed it, then help is at hand. This blog is filled with ideas on how you can start slowly moving your body again without straining yourself too much.

Consult a fitness professional

The last thing you want to do after giving birth is risk injuring yourself with an exercise routine that is too strenuous. It’s a good idea to choose a personal trainer in City of London to help you to find a routine that’s right for your body’s needs. Your personal trainer will listen to your concerns and devise a plan that will help your body slowly get used to moving again without causing you any injuries. However, before you start any exercise plan, you should always speak to your doctor in case there are any complications you’re not aware of.

Walk more

Walking is the easiest way to get more exercise with a new baby. Whether you take a stroll around lunchtime or take your baby out in their pram, walking will allow you to get some much-needed fresh air while stretching your legs. It’s true that walking won’t change your body an awful lot, but it’s just what you need when you’re a new mum. As your confidence grows, you can even start attempting to run or jog, perhaps opting for a couch to 5k programme to help progress from walking to running.

Take up yoga

Postnatal yoga is becoming more and more popular these days and helps many women to resume their normal lives after giving birth. Make sure you choose an instructor who has lots of experience and start slow. Most postnatal yoga classes will involve gentle movements and stretching, allowing you to get used to the way your body feels now. It prioritises mobility and flexibility and will never push you beyond your limits. If you have any concerns, speak to your instructor and they’ll help you to adapt certain postures to suit what your body is capable of.

Dip your toes into swimming

Swimming is a famously low-impact form of exercise, meaning it puts very little stress on your body if you don’t go too fast. It works every muscle and is a great way to ease aches and pains you might be having. Some swimming pools even have sessions specifically for women who’ve recently had a baby and may also offer classes that allow your baby to try swimming too. Going to swimming classes is not only a great form of exercise but allows you to bond with other women in a similar situation to your own. You never know, you may even make some new friends or form a support group.