There are few changes in a woman’s life more significant than pregnancy. Not only does having a child have a great impact on your life, but it also has a significant impact on your body. Whether it is your first child or fifth, pregnancy brings about changes that take time to reverse. Every new mother hopes to have her body returned to its original form immediately, but this is rarely a realistic goal. However, exercise and fitness practices are still a fantastic way to help your healing process following a pregnancy. Here are some of the most important things to remember when embarking on a postpartum workout routine.
Take It Slow
The most important consideration for new mothers is to take any workout routine slowly. The desire to get back to old routines is understandable and common. However, exercising too vigorously too quickly can do more harm than good. For some time following pregnancy, it will take time to relearn the changing limits of your body. Thus, you should always begin with the least intensity possible.
Your Core Will Be a Weak Link
Of all the changes that happen to a woman’s body during pregnancy, the most severe changes happen in the core. The rearrangement of muscles and tissue that occurs during pregnancy can leave the core muscle in a stretched, relocated, or damage state. Additional care should thus be taken to ensure that no additional damage is done. The best practice is to listen to your body. While many people consider “working through the pain” to be a noble pursuit, this approach can cause unnecessary pain and damage. Abdominal exercises are an excellent way to tone your body following pregnancy, but remember to be kind to yourself.
Mind Your Joints
During pregnancy, there are many obvious changes that occur. However, a less obvious factor that many people forget is the impact that pregnancy has on the joints. Due to the hormonal and physical impacts that pregnancy imposes on the body, joints throughout the body are often stretched, tender, or more wobbly than usual. Thus, be careful to listen to your body and be aware of the healing process inherent in your joints.
Don’t Be Hard on Yourself
The most important thing to remember when embarking on a postpartum workout routine is to not be too hard on yourself. While pregnancy is a beautiful and fulfilling process, it is also extremely difficult on your body. Even if you were able to bench 200 pounds before your pregnancy or run a seven-minute mile, do not expect to immediately return to those capabilities. Over time, your capabilities will return, and your body will revert to its original form. However, be patient in the process.
Beginning a workout routine is a fantastic method to repair your body following pregnancy. However, always err on the side of caution, and consult a doctor if you have any questions. Above all, be kind to yourself and listen to your body
