Losing weight after pregnancy can be difficult, but with regular exercise, you should notice a difference. Although you may feel too tired to exercise, working out for at least half an hour a day will not only help you lose baby fat, it may also increase your energy levels, according to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Consult a doctor before beginning a new exercise routine, particularly in the four to six weeks after delivery. Combine exercise with a balanced diet for best results.
Walking
Walking is one of the best ways to burn baby fat, according to ACOG. Not only does walking burn calories, it also reduces stress and tension. Walking is also a convenient exercise choice for new moms, since baby can come along. Begin with a daily 1/2-hour walk and increase to one hour of brisk walking. Start with a short stretching session.
Abdominal Exercises
Since most pregnancy weight goes to the abdomen, incorporating abdominal exercises into your daily routine can result in significant weight loss. BabyCenter.com recommends leg slides for mothers who are at least four weeks postpartum. Begin lying on the floor with the knees bent and hands under the head, as if you are doing crunches. Gently slide both of your legs until they are almost flat or your back begins to arch, tightening the abdominal muscles as you go. Bring the legs back to a bent position, and repeat eight to 10 times.
Swimming
Swimming is an effective, gentle way to lose baby fat. Swimming is especially beneficial for moms who had Caesarean deliveries, since it is a gentle form of exercise that puts little stress on the abdominals. According to BabyCenter.com, new moms should wait four to six weeks until you start a regular swimming routine, or until blood flow has stopped. One hour of swimming burns 400 calories, so try to incorporate at least 1/2 hour each day for best results.
References
- ACOG: Getting in Shape After Your Baby is Born
- BabyCenter.com: Abs and More: Exercises for Week 4 and Beyond
- C-SectionRecovery: Frequently Asked Questions About C-Section Recovery
- BabyCenter: When Can I Start Walking, Swimming and Other Low-Impact Exercise?
- AskDrSears: The Postpartum Period
- MayoClinic.com: Weight Loss After Pregnancy
Member Comments