Generally most women can begin a formal exercise
program within 6 weeks of giving birth, though this time frame might be
slightly longer for some women, including those recovering from a
C-section. Most women recovering from a C-section will be able to
exercise after there incision has healed and their doctor has cleared
them for exercise.
Just how soon you begin an exercise program will depend in part on
how you feel. If you had an easy delivery with no tearing and few
interventions and regularly exercised prior to birth, you may feel up to
some light exercise within 2 weeks of giving birth.
If this is the case, your doctor will probably allow you to engage
in some light activities, including walking. Strenuous activity should
generally be avoided however until several weeks after birth.
For some women however, even light exercise in the weeks following
delivery is not possible. If you had an episiotomy or tore severely
while delivering for example, your body may not physically be ready for a
formal exercise program for at least 4-6 weeks after birth (note… this
is also how long most physicians recommend that women abstain from
intercourse!).
How soon you begin exercising thus depends on your body and your
unique situation. Be sure you consult with your physician before
embarking on a new exercise program regardless of your activity level
before and during pregnancy.
Let’s say that one more time because it is important… YOU MUST
CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU WANT TO EMBARK ON AN
EXERCISE PROGRAM. Your body goes through a lot of physical trauma when
you deliver a baby. Starting an exercise program too soon will delay
your recovery and could potentially injure your body permanently. It may
also take you longer than six weeks to heal fully if you start
exercising too soon.
Now, if you feel better and capable of working out before you hit
the six week mark, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.
Most will encourage light exercise including walking, and some may
encourage other types of activity particularly if you were active before
you got pregnant.
Each and every individual is unique and different, thus their
ability to return to a regular exercise routine will vary after
delivery. It is important that you listen to your body.
