How Moms Can Get Back to Fitness After Having A Baby

Finding the time and motivation to exercise can be a challenge! Between work, taking care of children, and other responsibilities, it can seem impossible to fit a workout into an already-packed schedule.

But taking care of one’s health is crucial! Whether it’s to be able to lift your baby without back pain or chase after an active toddler, getting fit can help you do this.

That’s why we’ve interviewed Dr. Rachel Pope, a physical therapist and busy mom of four, about how moms can get back to fitness after having a baby.

3 Strategies to stay fit after having a baby

Go step by step.

We’ll only be frustrated if we tell ourselves we need to run a 5K marathon or spend hours at the gym. But there are many ways to get fit!

Be sure to also seek clearance from your physician before beginning any exercise program. Each pregnancy and delivery is different, so go at your own pace. Don’t feel pressured to do strenuous exercises right away.

Make it practical for your busy schedule.

Some people can work in a dedicated fitness program. And if so, that’s great!

But doing even just a few exercises a few minutes a day can work wonders too. Research shows that mini-workouts that are done as part of the daily routine are just as effective as longer exercise sessions.

Start with the core and pelvic floor.

After giving birth, strengthening the core and pelvic floor is vital. Problems such as leaking, a bulging tummy, or back pain can be linked to a weak core or pelvic floor.

It may not be helpful to simply get any exercise video off the internet, since we don’t know whether it will be suitable for you. Working with a trained and licensed specialist can help with core and pelvic floor problems.

Conclusion

Getting back to exercising as a busy parent can be challenging, but it is essential for overall health and well-being. With the right tools and guidance, it’s possible to take control of one’s health and set a positive example for children.

Dr. Rachel Pope is a doctor of physical therapy who specializes in helping moms strengthen their pelvic floor. You can find her at rachelpope.co.