yoga & pilates 15 months post-cesarean: can't do straight-leg raises?!

[BeccaB1981]

i got into yoga and pilates through a work friend who's obviously maintained her practice whilst i've, er, let mine slip.

i'm 15 (nearly 16) months post cesarean and i can't even do a basic leg raise any more.

(where you lie flat on your back and lift both legs at the same time so your legs are vertical)

how long can i expect to struggle like this? i didn't know my body could get into a WORSE state pp than before i ever did any classes (before pregnancy and birth i did classes twice a week at an intermediate level, felt strong)

what's a realistic timeline to get back up to feeling like i can do even the most basic level?! (e.g. being able to do a pilates 100 for 100 beats.. or do a proper chaturanga dandasana)

(for example, i can safely lower myself in a chaturanga dandasana, but not push up, i'm having to go on my knees)

I don't think anyone can answer this for you, it's so individual.

I'm also around 16m post c section. I had severe pvic girdle pain and I couldnt walk by the end. Pre pregnancy I practised yoga every day, could do things like splits, wheel etc... It has taken me a loooong time to start to see an improvement. I do 3 sessions a week, 2 pilates and one yoga - my core strength is starting to grow but it's slow.

You have to remember they cut through 7 layers (I think!) and only stitch together the top and bottom later, it takes ages to fully heal.

I think the best for lower abs has been very slow, very controlled toe taps, plus planks.

I would start doing regular controlled single leg raises, plus roll ups and roll down. The slower the better.

Hope that helps in some small way