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.