So, how do you get back into exercise after you’ve had a baby?
Now, it’s not something I’m rushing back to do as I know I need to listen to my body.
(I’m 8 days post partum as I write this and I’ve not yet been on a walk!)
But, it’s something I’ve been chatting about with other new mums so here are a few things to consider:
- The 6 week check with the GP really doesn’t cover much, you’re lucky if you get a feel for your diastasis or even a check on how things are healing down there. This is mostly because it’s not in their remit.
Which leads me on to…
- The “clearance for exercise” can’t be legit as how your body has healed and how everything functions is a determiner on you being able to exercise.
And when I say exercise, it doesn’t mean you can go running straight out of the GP!
You’ve had 9 months of growing a human which has brought on a lot of changes to your body, plus you have birthed and looked after a baby for 6 weeks.
My Advice?
- See a women’s health physio for a pelvic health check (aka Mummy MOT) to assess your pelvic floor/core
- Don’t go rushing back to the exercises you did pre pregnancy
- Follow post natal specific exercises that are suitable for the birth you had and any symptoms you might have
Need more inspiration?
- Online Classes:
- Bumps & Burpees Free Workouts on Instagram
- FIIT‘s post natal programme (head here for a free trial)
- @mamawelluk’s programme, @thepilatespt’s platform to name a few!
- In Person Classes: Whether it’s yoga, pilates or strength, there’s a class for whatever you fancy out there! Plus it’s a great chance to meet other new mums. Obviously I’m going to plug the Post Natal UpLift Class I hold here at my studio, The Barn KT9 every Tuesday.
- Personal Training: work with a PT who is QUALIFIED. There are a few out there who think they can train you because you’ve been signed off to exercise/you’re no longer pregnant, however, a lot has gone on in your body and you will need someone who is educated on this.
