Working out Post-Partum

I love to work out.  I truly believe that a healthy and strong body keeps your mind strong as well.  I worked out throughout my pregnancy with Avery, my first child and I am currently working out while pregnant with my second child. 

I took a break from working out after giving birth.  There were so many new things going on that needed my full attention to adjust to them.  I tried to work out at home, but the truth is: I was just too tired.  I prioritized sleep and food over my muscles.  I did not have any help with my newborn, so it was more important to be there for my child and put his well-being ahead of mine.  I knew it was just temporary.

I got back into working out at around 3 months post-partum when I felt comfortable enough to leave Avery at the gym child care center.  My body was strong before I gave birth, but 3 months later, I noticed how much weaker I had become!  I actually felt overwhelmed and clueless for the first time. So I started off with a personal trainer who worked with me on putting together exercises using mostly just my bodyweight.  The goal was to strengthen my core and regain balance.  I did leg lifts, romanian deadlifts, bench squats, easy single arm rows and push ups.  I couldn't believe that I was  not able to squat without losing my balance!

Shortly after 2 weeks, I noticed that I was getting stronger and confident enough to slowly resume to my workout routine prior to and during pregnancy -  I worked on different body parts instead of a full body workout:  1) Chest/Triceps/Abs, 2) Delts/Back/Biceps/Shoulders and 3) Legs.  

Left:  3 months post-partum when I just started working out again / Right:  12 months post-partum

Whenever I did not make it to the gym I would work out at the tiny gym at my condo complex to keep up with my routine.

Putting in all the work and discipline, I will say that my body was lean and strong again, but my skin was not as firm as I’d liked it to be.  I’m not upset about it because I love that our bodies have gone through such a big change.  Now, being pregnant with my second child, I have been more disciplined and focused and my workouts have more variety.  I'm curious to find out how different my body will be after giving birth.  I'll definitely write a post about it.

With that, please note that I have been cleared by my doctor for weightlifting during and after pregnancy.  Please consult with your doctor and work with a Trainer to ensure that you won't injure yourself.

xTanya

All photos are property of Tanya Sway (@averyandme).  Follow me @averyandme for more posts on fitness, pregnancy, motherhood and parenting.  You will also find a similar post on my blog www.averyandme.com