The old adage of “nine months on, nine months off” is not a standard that applies to all women. Some moms will shed their postpartum weight within the first few weeks; others will still be carrying their extra pounds one and two years later.
[USPRwire, Wed Feb 22 2006] Pregnancy is a life changing experience. In addition to having a new baby, most moms find themselves with a new body – and one that many are anxious to shape up as soon as possible.
The old adage of “nine months on, nine months off” is not a standard that applies to all women. Some moms will shed their postpartum weight within the first few weeks; others will still be carrying their extra pounds one and two years later.
For women who are serious about slimming down and firming up, there are several rules to follow and guidelines to be aware of. Nicole Masden, a personal trainer for Dallas-based Lady Trainers To Go is experienced and educated in training new moms.
“New moms should listen to their bodies as much as they can,” said Masden. “You don’t want to push it too much and you don’t want to wear yourself out. You have a new baby!”
To play it safe, moms can begin exercising around six weeks after giving birth. This gives their bodies a chance to recover from the physical strain of labor and childbirth. All women should run their exercise plans past their doctor before embarking on the challenge.
Prior to an all-out exercise program, women can start getting back into the habit of working out by taking walks with their new children bundled up in strollers. As endurance builds up, moms may want to challenge themselves by investing in a jogging stroller and taking their babies for a brisk run in the morning to start their day.
Other gentle exercises that will start to get the body back in motion include pelvic tilts and simple abdominal contractions. New moms who gave birth via C-section may need to wait a little longer before incorporating abdominal exercises into their workouts, as their abdominal walls need extra time to recuperate.
Oftentimes the best way to shape up after pregnancy, and a tried and true Hollywood staple, is to turn to a personal trainer. Look for a professional who has experience working with new moms, she will be the best one to recommend exercises, demonstrate proper technique, and monitor progress.
DVDs and classes targeted to new moms are also becoming available.
Masden recommends that moms explore different low impact cardio options, such as elliptical training, swimming, yoga, or Pilates. She warns against trying major weight lifting and classes that cause the body to bounce, prematurely.
What was her most important suggestion? “Do what your doctor tells you, listen to your body, and if it doesn’t feel good – stop doing it!”
Lady Trainers To Go is a Dallas-based business founded by CEO Robert Korngiebel in 2005. The company caters to female clients by providing them with the best female nutritionists and personal trainers in the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex. All trainers’ work with their clients in the convenience and privacy of the client’s own home. They design programs based on individual needs and goals, and provide all equipment necessary for an effective, challenging workout. For more information visit http://ladytrainerstogo.com or e-mail news@ladytrainerstogo.com.
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