Weight Loss: Getting In Shape After Pregnancy

by Angel Lynn Diamond | More from this Blogger

25 Feb 2009 04:33 PM

Here you are with this beautiful bundle of joy and you are on a high. Feeling like this it might not hit you right away. One day you get a glimpse of yourself in a mirror or maybe it will strike you as you are walking past a window at the shopping plaza. You do a double take and wonder who it is. Okay, now the depression might set in, but do not worry. You can conquer the post baby fitness battle.

Your body has undergone a tremendous workout. You have just had a human being inside your body for nine long months. Your tummy has been stretched far beyond your imagination. Your hips have spread out so much that you catch every countertop corner with them....and where the heck is that jiggling coming from? Getting back in shape after pregnancy can be discouraging, but it can be done.

Give yourself nine months to get back in to shape. It took you that long to get there. Cut yourself some slack. First of all, you cannot even think about exercising until you are fully recovered from your pregnancy, which will take about 6 weeks, more if you have had a Cesarean. You should make sure that you get your doctor's approval first.

Besides breastfeeding being so good for your baby it also has the benefit of getting your body into shape faster. You will most likely find that the pounds will drop off at an accelerated rate if you do choose to breastfeed.

When you are ready to start dieting and exercising take it easy and build up to it. A 1200-calorie a day diet plan will give you the quickest results with combined exercise as well. Make sure that you are getting the essential vitamins that are needed, as you have to have enough energy to take care of the new baby. Start exercising with the baby in tow every day. You can take walks, which will be great for the baby and you. Signing up at your local YMCA or other gym is also a good way to exercise. All of the equipment that you need is right there. Day care is usually available also. If finances are a problem, you really do not need much. You can borrow some exercise DVDs at your local library. I like to exercise while listening to music. Before I know it I have exercised for a half an hour without even realizing it.

Whatever your workout make sure it is healthy and that you have your doctor's permission first. As far as exercise selection, just keep moving. The pounds will begin to roll off before you know it and you will be back just as slim as you were before your sweet, little baby.

Angel Lynn writes in weight loss, single parenting, and health

Learn more about Angel Lynn Diamond

I am a mom to my precious one and only, a nurse in a heartwarming adult living facility, and a freelance writer.

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