Is it Difficult to Get Back in Shape After Having a Baby?

Getting back in shape after having a baby is a goal that is typically top of mind for new mothers. There are some elements of getting back in shape after having a baby that can be difficult. You can reduce the difficulty of the process by: 1. A realistic timeframe, 2. A high quality training program 3. Eating to nourish your body 1. Give yourself a realistic timeframe Many new mums want to have their pre-baby body back immediately which is understandable. However, most women do not immediately go back to their pre-pregnancy bodies. It takes TIME to heal from giving birth, your body is still being flooded with extra hormones for a while after birth. One of the hardest parts about getting back in shape after having a baby is waiting. Waiting until your body is ready for exercise, which by the way is different for every woman, and waiting for your doctor to give you the all-clear. This can be very difficult but extremely important, giving yourself a realistic timeframe helps protect you from injury. 2. Choose a program that will provide lasting results After pregnancy, many women have some excess fat to lose. It can be tempting to jump into a program focused solely on losing weight. These programs often include severe calorie restriction and lots of cardio. At first, you will see some results from this type of program. Long term, however, it will be extremely difficult to keep the weight off with a cardio-focused workout routine. Choose a program that is focused on building muscle through strength training. Building muscle helps increase your metabolism which, in turn, helps you burn more calories throughout the day. Lasting change in your body composition happens when you choose a workout program that is focused on building muscle. 3. Eat to nourish your body The last thing you need when you have a newborn to care for is a complex nutrition program. Eat to nourish your body after birth, avoid heavily processed foods, make protein, vegetables and healthy fats a PRIORITY, and do not eat more than you need. With these principles, you can establish a style of eating that works for you and helps you get back in shape after having a baby. You will have some difficult days on your journey to lose weight after having a baby, but be kind to yourself – you’ve just had a baby and remember you’re doing great – Keep going!!