Calling all new mums! Make the most of your maternity leave and adjust into a new exercise routine. It’ll boost your mood by increasing endorphins (those feel-good chemicals in your brain), help you slide back into your pre-pregnancy jeans and improve the quality of sleep to enable you to cope better. Read on for top tips from personal trainer Stephanie Wilson...
Start slow
The recommended time to start exercising is six to eight weeks after your baby’s arrival (10 weeks after a C-section), but gentle walking is fine in the first few weeks if you’re feeling up to it. Remember that every woman is different, so listen to your body and make sure to check with your doctor before undergoing any physical activity.
Gently does it
Start doing pelvic floor exercises as soon as you feel able – these will improve circulation and help to reduce swelling and bruising. It might feel that not much is happening initially, but keep going and you’ll notice improvements within a few months.
Pushy mums
Don’t attempt to do sit-ups or stomach crunches – they will increase the pressure on your weakened pelvic floor muscles and may cause lower back pain. Your ligaments are still softened and stretched from relaxin – a hormone produced during pregnancy to relax the pelvis – and quick moves may increase the risk of injury.
Team player
You can usually start exercising again after your six-week postnatal check. Exercise groups for mothers and babies in your local area are great for meeting new mums as well as getting fit (visit buggyfit.com). Ask for your GP’s advice before you try more intense activities like running or swimming.
Keep hydrated
Water flushes waste products from the cells and is important for breast milk production and flow. So always carry a bottle wherever you go. This 1L Bobble Pink Water Filter Bottle is perfect for hydration on the go.
Flexible friends
Pilates is perfect for gentle post-baby toning (and those pelvic floor muscles!), especially after a C-section.
Defy gravity
If breastfeeding, make sure you buy a sports bra which isn’t too tight as it could be uncomfortable with increased milk flow.
Get your feet properly measured
It’s not uncommon that your shoe size will increase during pregnancy – so it could be time to splash out and buy a fresh new pair of trainers.
Get the gear
Now you're ready to get fit, check out our awesome picks to help you on your way to feeling fit and fabulous.
Athletics Works Sports Bra; Avia Mesh Trainers; Athletic Works Piped Leggings; Red Kite Push Me Urban Jogger Poppy
For more information about pregnancy and beyond, sign up to Asda's Baby and Toddler Club.