Exercise for the New Mom

Benefits of Exercise
Exercise benefits your mind, body & spirit in many great ways: helps with weight loss, restores muscle strength, relieves stress, boosts energy, and boosts mood.

Physician Recommendations & Amounts
· Doctors now recommend beginning exercise a few days after delivery if you had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery, or as soon as you feel ready.

· If you had a C-section or a complicated delivery, talk to your doctor about when to start an exercise routine.

· Exercise has no negative effects on breast milk volume or composition, provided you are drinking adequate fluids. You can continue to breast feed when you exercise.

· According to the Mayo Clinic, experts recommend 30 minutes of exercise 4-5 times/week after delivery.
· Stick to moderate physical exercise and drink plenty of water before and after your workout.

Activities to Try
Walk with your baby in a stroller, swim laps, or participate in a fitness class. If you are too tired for exercise, just do what you can. Sneak in 5 minutes here and there. Seek support of family or friends. Planning is key as a new mom, schedule exercise ahead of time so that you don’t miss it.