Learn about post-natal exercises…
By Helen Vanderburg, Nautilus Institute™ Master Trainer
In the past decade the recommendation and modification for exercise during pregnancy and postpartum have gone through many changes as more and more research supports the benefits of exercise during and after pregnancy. With a normal healthy pregnancy new research now supports exercise throughout pregnancy with few modifications as far as intensity, type and frequency. The general recommendation is to listen to your body and use this time to maintain your fitness level rather than to train. Using common sense regarding exercises choices. Postpartum exercise recommendations are to get active as soon as possible and with a C-section as soon as your health care provider gives you the green light.
Use of Pre/Post Natal Exercise
- One of the best activities to do during pregnancy is walking as it is low impact and comfortable for pregnant woman
- Walking is a cardiovascular activity and burns sufficient calories to assist with weight control during pregnancy or weight loss after delivery
- Postpartum the baby stroller is the best investment you can make as you get the fitness benefits of walking as well as the benefit of the rocking motion putting your baby to sleep. Need I say more!
Benefits of Pre/Post Natal Exercise
- Walking is also a great activity to assist with controlling blood pressure and nausea during pregnancy
- The first activity your health care provider will recommend after delivery of your baby is to start walking as soon as possible to begin the healing process.
- Walking helps to heal the body and to get your body back into shape after having a baby
- Walking burns calories and is an excellent for weight management
- The schedule of a new baby in your life make it difficult to find time for yourself and walking is the easiest activity to do as you can do it almost any time and any where
- Walking can be a stress reducer and with the demands of a new baby it can give you the mental as well as physical break you need.
