When can I do intense exercise after c section?

[whiterabbity]

I used to love going to the gym for 45 minute intense exercises involving sit ups/planks/crunches etc. When is realistic to go back after a c section? Currently 6 weeks pp.

I went back to the gym post my doctor check up. first session walking, next very light weights. Prepare to be shocked you won’t have stomach muscles to start with. However I built up sensibly and was back to full self by a year. Ps I weight trained 4/5 times a week for years pre giving birth and trained sensibly up to birth. Preparing for my second cs now. Good luck - don’t rush x

You do need to go slow, absolutely no point rushing it and setting your healing back. I’d definitely do a few weeks of walking first, then gradually build in some gym sessions with either body weight only or light weights. You’ll need to watch your form as PP said you’ll have no ab muscles! Pilates is great for building those muscles back up but don’t forget they were cut in 2 so it does take time.