Reclaiming Your Post-Baby Body: Postpartum Fitness Tips

Embracing Post-Baby Fitness with Pelvic Floor Exercises

Ah, the post-baby body – it’s a topic often discussed in hushed tones among new mums, almost like a secret initiation. As a proud member of the over-40 new mums’ club, stepping on to the postpartum scales felt as daunting as a horror movie marathon. If you’ve read about my six-week check, you know I’m in my fourth decade, navigating a stomach that jiggles like a bowl of abgoosht. And yes, the cheeky khalleh (aunt) calling me ‘Aranda kheli charg’ (very fat) was a classic Farsi flattery fumble.

Meet the Hero: Vicky Bradley

In the whirlwind of new motherhood, Vicky Bradley, the mumpreneur behind Buggies, Bums, and Tums, became my fitness saviour. Her class isn’t just about working out; it’s a fun blend of pelvic floor recovery, toddler entertainment, and buggy fitness.

• The Buggy Brigade: Imagine a group of sleep-deprived mums, buggies in tow, gathering in a local park. Our goal? To exercise, laugh, and maybe surprise a few dog-walkers with our synchronised buggy routines.
• Cardio with a Twist: Our warm-up was a cardio workout set to cheerful children’s music. While our babies explored floor mats and toys, we jogged around Great Park in Newcastle. After that, we tackled push-ups, stomach crunches, and tricep dips – all while keeping an eye on our little critics.

Mastering Pelvic Floor Recovery

Post-birth, many of us face the challenge of a weakened pelvic floor. Balancing workouts with bladder control issues can be tricky. Vicky’s class provided essential exercises to help strengthen those muscles.

• Engaging the Core: We practiced pelvic floor exercises that focused on control and grace. These became our secret weapon against post-baby surprises, done with the dignity of experienced mums.

Finding Joy in the Challenge

Exercising in public with a baby can be intimidating. But, once you get past the initial awkwardness of curious onlookers, it turns into a lot of fun. Sweating it out and bonding with fellow mums became a highlight of my week, all under the amused gaze of our little workout buddies.

Vicky’s class quickly became a cherished part of my routine. It’s a place free from judgment and pressure, where we could reclaim our bodies while sharing laughs. So here’s to pelvic floor prowess, buggy ballet, and the resilience of mums over 40 – we’re not just bouncing back; we’re bouncing forward!

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Top Tips Fact File:

Exercise can be messy and awkward, especially with a baby in tow. Embrace the fun and laughter that comes with it.

Tip 1: Prioritise Pelvic Floor Exercises

Focus on exercises that strengthen your pelvic floor. They’re crucial for improving control and preventing postpartum issues.

Tip 2: Incorporate Baby-Friendly Workouts

Choose fitness routines that allow you to exercise while caring for your baby. Buggy workouts are a great option!

Tip 3: Stay Consistent

Regular exercise is key. Aim for a few sessions each week to maintain momentum and see results.

Tip 4: Embrace the Support of Fellow Mums

Join a group or class where you can bond with other new mums. It’s motivating and makes the experience enjoyable.

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General Well-Being for New Mums

1. Mayo Clinic – Postpartum Care
   • A comprehensive guide to postpartum care, including physical and emotional recovery tips for new mothers.
2. What to Expect – Postpartum Health and Wellness
   • Covers various aspects of postpartum health, including emotional well-being, physical recovery, and self-care tips.

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Postpartum Fitness Tips

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Postpartum Exercise
   • Provides guidelines and recommendations for postpartum exercise to help new mums regain strength and fitness safely.
2. Postpartum Support International – Exercise and Postpartum Recovery
   • Offers resources and support for postpartum exercise, including local support groups and online forums for new mums.
3. The Bump – Postpartum Fitness Plan
   • Features fitness plans and exercises specifically designed for new mothers to help them ease back into a routine.

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Pelvic Floor Recovery

1. Pelvic Health Physiotherapy – Pelvic Floor Exercises
   • Detailed information on pelvic floor exercises and their importance in postpartum recovery.
2. The International Urogynecological Association – Pelvic Floor Health
   • Provides resources and information on maintaining pelvic floor health, including exercises and treatments.
3. Fit4Mom – Pelvic Floor Health for Mums
   • Offers guidance on pelvic floor health, with specific exercises and tips for postpartum recovery.

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Do you have any postpartum fitness tips to offer our readers? We’d love to hear from you? Please do share your comments here.