Those first couple of months after giving birth can mean exercise confusion. Here’s the latest thinking.
BRAND-NEW BABY?
Docs now say have a workout if you’re up for it.
New moms used to be told to sit tight for six weeks after having a baby, until their doc gave them the green light to exercise. No more. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recently declared that “some women are capable of resuming physical activities within days of delivery” and that OB-GYNs should, in the case of an “uncomplicated vaginal delivery, counsel patients that they can begin or resume an exercise programme as soon as they feel able.” “We’re not telling women, ‘You better get out there,’ but we’re saying it’s totally fine to do what you feel up to,” says OB-GYN Alison Stuebe, an associate professor at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. “Before, there was a sense of, ‘Go home, and don’t get out of bed.’” Feeling good is the key factor when choosing “fourth trimester” exercise, Alison says. Ready to get moving, but you don’t know where to start? Try this circuit from Pilates pro Andrea Speir, the creator of the new Fit Pregnancy Plan workout digital series. Start with three days a week and work up to six. “The moves will give you endorphins,” Andrea says. “You’ll feel ready to take on the day after, not depleted.”
Benefit: “Side planks focus on tightening the deep abs without the downward pressure on the belly,” Andrea says.
Benefit: “This lateral cardio has less up-down pressure on your pelvic floor than jogging.”
Benefit: “This strengthens your hips and glutes to help support the lower back.”
Benefit: “This classic opens up those tight belly and back muscles.”
Begin on floor on all fours. Inhale as you arch your back, and gaze forward. Exhale as you round back and bring head into chest. Do 10 reps.
