It’s very important to continue with your Kegel exercises to prevent urine leakage—especially when your activity level increases. You should not resume or begin running until you have enough pelvic floor control to prevent leakage.
If you are breastfeeding, wear a supportive bra and try to walk after feeding or pumping so your breasts will not feel uncomfortable.
Cool down after your walk by slowing down your pace, bringing your heart rate back down near its resting level. Finish up with some light stretches.
Postpartum walking is one of the easiest ways to resume your exercise routine and help you restore your muscle tone and fitness level. Combine walking with some light stretching and strengthening exercises, and you will have your pre-pregnancy body back in no time! Be sure to start out slow and follow your doctor’s recommendations. Remember—it was a nine-month process of gaining weight, so it will take time to lose it. But with dedication, you can meet your fitness goals and have some fun in the process!
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Sara Hambidge
Sara, a graduate of Saint Louis University's Physical Therapy Program, practices at a sports medicine clinic in Cincinnati. A certified prenatal and postpartum exercise instructor, Sara is also a proud mother of one.
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