Christopher K. Quinsey, MD is an OBGYN providing compassionate, thorough and attentive care for women and their health care needs in Lake Mary, Sanford, Longwood, Altamonte Spings, Orlando, and throughout Volusia county.
What are the benefits of exercising after having a baby?
Daily exercise can help restore muscle strength and firm up your body. Exercise can make you less tired because it raises your energy level and improves your sense of well-being. During pregnancy, the muscles in your abdomen stretch. It takes time for good muscle tone to return. Exercising helps tighten these muscles.
When can I start exercising after having a baby?
Check with your doctor before starting an exercise program. You should start when you feel up to it and know you will keep it up. Follow the same guidelines as you did when you were pregnant. If you had a cesarean birth, a difficult birth, or complications, it may take a little while longer to feel ready to start exercising.
If you did not exercise during pregnancy, start with easy exercises and slowly build up to harder ones. If you exercised regularly throughout pregnancy, you have a head start. You should not try to resume your former pace right away, though.
How do I get started with an exercise program?
Walking is a good way to get back in shape. Brisk walks will prepare you for more vigorous exercise when you feel up to it. Walking is a good choice for exercise because the only thing you need is a pair of comfortable shoes. It is free, and you can do it almost any place or time.
Walking also is good because your baby can come along. The two of you can get out of the house for exercise and fresh
air without needing to find child care. Seeing other people and being outside can help relieve stress and tension.
When should I add exercises besides walking?
As you feel stronger, think about trying more vigorous exercise. You will want to decide on exercises that meet your needs. A good program will make your heart and lungs stronger and tone your muscles.
There are special postpartum exercise classes that you can join. Your health care provider can help you find some good classes.
What resources are available?
Resources that may be helpful are local health and fitness clubs, community centers, local colleges, hospitals, and adult education programs. With any program you get involved in, make sure it is one you will keep doing. Exercise over time is more important than starting right away after birth.
What are some basic tips for staying cool and comfortable while exercising?
Wear comfortable clothing that will help keep you cool.
Wear a bra that fits well and gives plenty of support to help protect your breasts.
Drink plenty of water.
How can I warm up before exercising?
Before you begin each exercise session, always warm up for 5–10 minutes. This light activity, such as slow walking, prepares your muscles for exercise. As you warm up, stretch your muscles to avoid injury. Hold each stretch for 10–20 seconds—do not bounce.
What is my target heart rate?
You should exercise so that your heart beats at the level that gives you the best workout. This is called your target heart rate. Your target heart rate is 50–85% of the average maximum heart rate for your age. To check your heart rate, count the beats by feeling the pulse on the inside of your wrist. Count for 10 seconds. Multiply this count by 6 to get the number of beats per minute.
When you begin your exercise program, aim for the lower range of your target heart rate (50% of your maximum heart rate). As you get into better shape, slowly build up to the higher end of your target heart rate. After 6 months of exercise, you should be able to exercise at up to 85% of your maximum heart rate. But you do not need to exercise at 85% of your maximum heart rate to stay fit. You should aim to exercise about 20–30 minutes while in your target heart rate.
How can I cool down?
After exercising, cool down by slowing your activity. Cooling down allows your heart rate to return to normal levels. Cooling down for 5–10 minutes, followed by stretching, also helps prevent sore muscles.
