Monday, June 11, 2007

Doing it the Right Way

Having a baby means a lot of things. Losing sleep, learning how to hold a tiny person the right way and dealing with the weight you gained during your pregnancy. It won't be easy, what with the lack of sleep and a new person to care for, but exercise should be one of your top priorities since, as Fit Pregnancy reminds us, "it raises your metabolism, helps you shed those extra pounds, provides energy to deal with your chaotic life, gives you a little time for yourself, and helps relieve stress and body tension."
Studies show that most women gain an average of about 30 pounds during pregnancy. 18 to 20 pounds are usually lost within a month of having a baby, but those last 5 to 10 pounds can be hard to get rid of! Don't lose heart! With a little patience and a consistent exercise program, you can exercise and get back into shape after baby.
Getting back to exercise after having a baby should be a gradual process.
you do anything, you should talk to your doctor about simple exercises you can do the first couple of weeks after the birth. Kegel exercises are a great place to start, since they involve small contractions of the muscles at the vaginal wall. Kegel exercises can help strengthen weak pelvic muscles, which could cause bladder control problems. Another easy one during the first few weeks after you have your baby is walking. Short, slow walks will help your body get ready for more vigorous exercise, as well as get you a little time and fresh air to yourself. A full-fledged return to the aerobic activities you participated in pre-pregnancy usually comes around the time of your postpartum doctor's visit, or after about six weeks. So, go slow and don't push yourself!
source- about.com

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