exercising after a cs

[peacefuloptimist]

Hi

I want to get more active after giving birth to shift some weight and improve my fitness. So far I have stuck to walking but am trying to find other activities that would be safe to do after having a csection. I have previously done the 30 day shred but Im a bit worried about injuring myself and truthfully dont think Im ready for that level of strenuous workout. I am thinking of going to an aerobics or zumba class near to me but not sure again if it would be too much (only been 5 weeks since i gave birth). Ideally i would really like an exercise dvd I could do at home as getting childcare is sporadic for me. Any recommendations?

I'd just stick to walking with baby in a pram for now (congratulations ) as I think you'd do more damage than good.

I can't remember when I started exercising but by three/four months I think I started stomach exercises.

Maybe a yoga DVD?

I did a step class after 8 weeks post c section. I took it easy and didn't do any stomach exercises. Felt like that was probably a week or two too soon afterwards but it was ok. Biggest issue for me was my lower back muscles felt very weak which was probably from preganancy rather than the c section. All your ligaments are still a bit prone to stretchynees which can result in injury so you just have to be extra careful. I'd think 5 weeks was a bit too soon for an exercise class, but it depends on how you're feelings and how you've recovered.

To be honest Im not great however I am feeling restless. I want to lose the weight quickly and due to breastfeeding i cant reduce what i eat as much as i would like. I feel a bit stuck.

Honestly, walking will be amazing for you at this point. Go faster if you're up to it and get healthy food in you

Thanks Tallulah.

I was in the same position as you a few month ago. Walking with the pram is definitely the best exercise for you at the moment. I also did as much swimming as I could. In terms of food, eat high protein foods which are filling when breastfeeeding.

If childcare is an issue, try going up and down the stairs as much as you can.
Jillian michaels DVDs are great but probably too strenuous for you at the moment. Maybe in a few weeks you maybe ready for them. Maybe adapt them and only do the bits you feel you are able to do, like the upper body exercises etc.