Fitness After Pregnancy

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

Since I recently had a new baby, the topic of fitness has been on my mind. The extra weight can make you feel anxious or depressed. We all want our bodies back right away, but that's not going to happen. It takes time to get back in shape.

Most doctors will tell you to remember the nine months on and nine months off rule. It took nine months to lose your figure; it will take nine months to get it back. Gradual weight loss is better and you are more likely to keep the weight off when you lose it slowly.

Be sure you are completely healed after the birth prior to exercising. Your doctor may recommend that you wait until after the six week check up before exercise. He may let you start walking after the first few weeks. If you had a c section, you will definitely need to wait the full six weeks.

If you were fit prior to pregnancy, your body may come back faster than if you never exercised. Talk to your doctor about fitness at your post partum visit. Discuss your exercise of choice and listen to any suggestions. Each woman is different and heals at a different rate.

Consider lifestyle changes needed for fitness. These can be related to your diet or physical fitness. Think about your diet. List some things you want to change. What is your typical exercise routine? Consider changes you may need to make.

Don't try to make all the changes at once. Having a baby is a big change, so take it slow. Make one or two changes. For example, cut out junk food snacks and replace these with healthier choices. If you never exercise, start taking a walk with the baby every day. Making healthy changes feels good and will motivate you to change even more.

Don't get depressed about your body. Negative thoughts are self defeating. Change your negative thinking into positive affirmations. Rather than telling yourself you are fat and losing weight too slowly, put a positive spin on it. Think about the changes you are making. Feel your body getting healthier. This will make you feel better about your body and motivate you to get fit.

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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