Challenge after birth

Returning to fitness after giving birth is rarely straightforward. For new mums over 40, the challenge can feel particularly pronounced. I discovered this first-hand, stepping on the scales six weeks postpartum and staring at a body that no longer seemed to belong to me. The familiar jiggle of my stomach felt like a private reminder that my body had changed irreversibly. Comments from well-meaning relatives in farsi, intended as playful, sometimes landed as blunt reminders of the task ahead.

Finding guidance in specialised classes

In the haze of sleepless nights and endless feeds, structured support became essential. Vicky Bradley, founder of Buggies, Bums, and Tums, provides a tailored approach to postpartum fitness. Her classes are not about gym perfection; they focus on strengthening the pelvic floor, core engagement, and gentle cardiovascular work, all while accommodating the practicalities of life with a newborn.

The practicalities of buggy workouts

Exercising in public with a baby is often an intimidating proposition. In Vicky’s classes, the buggy becomes part of the workout. Picture a small group of tired mums navigating the park with prams, turning cardio routines and strength exercises into a shared experience. Warm-ups involve gentle jogging and dynamic movements while babies observe from the safety of mats or buggies. Push-ups, tricep dips, and stomach exercises are adapted for a postpartum body, and attention to pelvic floor activation is constant.

Mastering pelvic floor recovery

Postpartum pelvic floor weakness is common. Beyond the risk of leaks or prolapse, it can affect posture and exercise performance. Structured exercises focusing on controlled engagement of these muscles are crucial. With practice, these routines become second nature, improving core stability and supporting more ambitious fitness goals.

A measured approach to wellbeing

Postpartum fitness is not simply about returning to a pre-baby body. It is about reclaiming strength, core stability, and confidence. For mothers over 40, physiological recovery may take longer, but with structured exercises, peer support, and realistic goals, it is entirely achievable. The focus shifts from aesthetic recovery to functional fitness and resilience, a goal that benefits both mother and child.

Have you navigated postpartum fitness challenges yourself? What strategies or exercises helped you regain strength and confidence? Share your experiences and join the conversation below.