Chris,
I just had a baby and am anxious to get back in shape. I gained more weight then I wanted to – but a small price to pay for my beautiful new baby boy! How soon can I get back to working out? I did work out a couple times a week while pregnant – mostly the treadmill or the bike. I would love to loose weight and firm up my tummy. How long do you think it will take to get back in shape? Can you recommend a workout routine?
New mommy who wants to be in a bikini by summer!
Amy
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Amy,
Congratulations on your new baby boy! Gaining unwanted pounds is obviously a byproduct of being pregnant but it doesn’t have to be permanent issue.
New mothers that consistently worked out before and during their pregnancies will get into shape much faster but for everyone else it will take a little longer. The average person will take 8 months to a year to get their figures back. I know what you’re thinking. Kate Hudson and Sarah Jessica Parker didn’t have to wait that long to get back into tip top shape. Remember Hollywood starts have nannies, personal trainers and dietitians to help them speed up the process.
Most doctors recommend between 6-8 weeks of rest before you begin working out again. If you had a cesarean it may take a little longer. It is always important to get permission from your doctor before starting any exercise program after pregnancy. Every case is different.
The biggest problem for most new mothers is finding time to work out while caring for a new born. Therefore you may need to be creative. Check to see if your gym offers daycare to their members. You may also want to invest in a jog stroller- stroller that allows you to run or walk with your baby in tow.
Start slow and don’t expect any miracles. I would suggest starting out with 1-3 cardio work out’s per week. Since you were already doing cardio during your pregnancy it will be a good place to begin. Gradually increasing your cardio work out’s to 3-5 sessions a week. When you are feeling healthy and have received permission from your doctor you may begin lifting weights. Try starting with a full body work out 2 times a week with three days rest in between. Do one exercise for each body part. Complete three set’s for each exercise. When the work out becomes easy add a third day. Be sure to allow one day of rest between each weight lifting work out.
Your body is a remarkable machine but you should ease back into a program for best results.