Getting Back to YOU After Baby

Getting Back to YOU After Baby
By Andrea Gleason

Tips for Starting an Exercise Program Postpartum

Like many new moms I was eager to get myself fit and focused after the birth of my daughter. Unlike other training plans I had pursued in the past, I had a lot more factors to consider; how to get my new body ready, how exercising would affect my new responsibilities as a mother, and what level of exercise would be the best place to start for long-term success. Below are some tips to help you get started.

Tip #1- Follow Up With Your Doctor.

Talk with your doctor first to get clearance to exercise. Your OB/GYN will be able to help you determine when to begin a fitness plan based on your body and your needs, as each of us has unique factors to consider. You should be able to get a full clearance to exercise at your 6-week checkup (8 weeks if you had a c-section).

Tip #2- Get New Tools For Your New Body.

A sports bra should be your first stop. Your support needs have changed since becoming pregnant and it’s important to find a good fit. If you are breastfeeding you will probably be most comfortable wearing two sports bras for extra support.

Make no doubt about it your body has changed. It should have, you gave birth to another human! Getting workout clothes that are comfortable and in the right size is key. It doesn’t mean you have to break the bank, but having a couple of items in your wardrobe that make you feel cute and confident can make working out a whole lot easier.

Surprisingly, your feet change dramatically from your pre-pregnancy body. One thing you can bet for sure is that your shoe size has changed. In most women, your arches will lengthen causing you to change shoe sizes. The best way to find out is to have your feet and gait analyzed at a specialty running store, like Luke’s Locker in Plano. Everyone has a unique combination of foot shape and mechanics. That just might mean the cutest pair may not be right for you. However, the right shoe goes a long way to making happy feet and taking the right steps to working out.

Tip #3- Be Patient, Work Hard

Try to get moving gradually. The keys to getting fit are slowly building a good fitness base and consistency in your workouts. Finding a good program or instructor can take a lot of the guesswork out of designing a fitness plan. Another benefit to joining a group is meeting other moms trying to accomplish the same goals you are.

Even with all the necessary tools, just getting started can be a challenge. Time, confidence, and energy can seem to be insurmountable hurdles. You can, however, count on two things. Doing something is better than nothing, and you WILL feel better after exercising. The time and energy spent working out will pay dividends for you and your baby.