Post-natal exercise is not as straight forward as just jumping back into your old routine. A new mother’s programme needs to be managed correctly for two reasons:
1. the programme needs to be effective so the mum can achieve her goals but also mindful of the fact that the body is still recovering from pregnancy and lacking quality sleep
2. new babies have a habit of ignoring mum’s fitness schedules to demand milk, entertainment or a nappy change.
Luckily a very wise man once taught me that the best way to train new mums (once she has been given the all clear from a healthcare professional) is to focus on short intense bursts (c. 20secs) followed by plenty of rest as this places the least physical stress on the body whilst also being a highly effective form of training.
These bursts are based around exercises such as heavy squats or rows that recruit a lot of body parts simultaneously or all out sprints on the rower/ski erg/bike. Its tough but you feel great afterwards as you get a big surge of endorphins.
I am also lucky in the fact that I work at a great studio gym, VO2 Fitness Training, that has a very baby friendly policy, as you can see from the picture, so breaks for feeding, nappies or rocking to sleep are all part of the fun.
Let me now if you fancy giving it a go.
Tom
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