Being pregnant is tough stuff. Our bodies change – on what seems like a daily basis – and our cravings are usually at an all-time high. From swollen feet to a constantly growing belly, it seems that no matter what we do there are things that can’t be avoided and are just part of the pregnancy process – which is totally OK! However, once our bun is out of the oven and we have figured out what daily routine works best for us and our newborn, it is time to get our life and body back on track. Here are a few tips to help you do just that.
Don’t Worry About Your Breast Milk
A lot of new moms worry that working out will negatively impact their breast milk supply. However, if you make sure you stay properly hydrated and nourished, you won’t notice any changes. Exercise has been proven to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety for new mothers, so put on your gear and hit the gym. With that said, it is highly important that you have a good sports bra, which won’t put pressure on your chest and will provide you with the right level of support. In addition, you should have comfortable running shoes, so check out walkjogrun.net and find a pair that meets your needs.
Understand That Your Body Has Changed
During pregnancy, the hormone relaxin has an assignment to soften the ligaments around the pelvis so you are ready for labor when the time comes. However, this hormone can also compromise the stability of all joints. Since it can remain in your system for up to five months after you have given birth, it is incredibly important not to overload the joints during that time. Otherwise, you can easily injure yourself which is the last thing you need as a new mom.
It is wise to wait at least six weeks before engaging in any high-intensity exercises. However, if you get back on your feet earlier, you can try some low impact workouts that won’t put pressure on your joints. Although swimming is the best full-body, low-impact exercise, make sure your postnatal lochia has stopped before you go to your local pool. Gentle lunges and toe touches are low impact workouts that can push your heart rate slightly without risking your safety and well-being.
Use What You’ve Got
When you are a new mom, leaving home without your baby can be tricky. Therefore, going to the gym and spending hours there is definitely not an option. However, who says you can’t turn your home into a gym? Instead of complicated machines you would use at your fitness center, use your kitchen chair, stairs, porch and other objects for press-ups, triceps dips, and step-ups. Instead of using dumbbells fill your water bottles and use those as your weights. Heck, you can even use your kids!
Find A Workout Partner
It is easier to stay on track and work towards your goal when you have someone to keep you motivated. Therefore, ask your friend or a family member to work out with you. If no one has the time, your little one can also act as your workout partner. You can turn your fitness routine into a fun game for them so you can burn those calories while keeping your little one entertained as well.
Give Yourself Time
You won’t get perfectly fit overnight. Your body has gone through a lot of changes and it needs time to fully recover from labor, so don’t force yourself to join extreme fitness programs and follow strict diet regimes. Instead, give yourself time, be persistent and eventually you will manage to get back to a body shape you feel comfortable with. Getting fit and eating healthy works best when it becomes part of your lifestyle, not just a quick fix. As such, getting back into shape requires baby steps, so arm yourself with patience and keep your eyes on the prize.
