Getting Back Into Shape
Getting your body back into shape after pregnancy can feel like an impossible task. The first thing you need to know is that your body has been through a monumental task and succeeded beautifully, so let’s give it some credit! Those extra soft spots here and there where it used to be tight and toned are entirely normal, and you’re a superhuman for having gone through what you did – yay you! But, if you’re looking to get back into your usual state of business and fitness, then it’s going to be a bit more different than before you had your little bundle. So, you need to take your body, especially your abdomen, into account and never push it further than it can go. That said, here are some tips on getting back into shape after your pregnancy.
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Give yourself enough time
The results you’re used to may take a bit longer this time around than before you had your baby – but not giving up and trusting the process is what will get you through in the end. It’s been reported that your body can take up to a few months to recover after childbirth, which means you have to be patient with it. Your uterus only goes back to normal six to eight weeks after giving birth, which is brought about by postpartum hormones making your uterus contract and shrink. It is also highly advisable to get the green light from your gynecologist before taking on any exercise – you’re usually fine after about six weeks from birth. Still, you should definitely first check with your medical professional.
Start small
You’re not going to be able to cross-fit six weeks after giving birth to a human being, so don’t even try! You’re only going to disappoint yourself by setting unrealistic standards that nobody on earth would’ve been able to live up to. It would be like, asking someone to run a marathon after receiving heart surgery! Instead, start with the small stuff and work your way up, like taking walks and increasing your speed as your progress. Should you feel any muscle cramping or pain resulting from the exercises, you can consider giving a drug-free electromagnetic pain relief or a TENS unit a try, which will ease any pain without administering any drugs while you’re breastfeeding. Just check in with your doctor and get the thumbs up from them as well!
You can also try swimming, which is some of the best exercises anybody can do. Cardio, in general, is also good to start with, but keep the intensity at a low until you feel strong enough to crank it up a notch. Pelvic floor exercises like Kegels can also be done anywhere and will also allow you to feel a bit more normal and not as if you’re going to wet yourself every time you laugh or sneeze!
By using the above tips, you’ll be getting back into shape without feeling like you’re failing or putting yourself through hell. After all, you’ve just performed one of the few miracles in life; give yourself some credit for a change!