post-pregnancy workouts

[Michele S]

Hi all!

Okay...I'm jumping the gun, but I'm 7 1/2 months pregnant and can't wait to get back into the swing of things afterwards! Does anyone know if Cathe has ever posted a post-pregnancy rotation or a guide to easing back into working out?

Michele

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Congratulations Michele! Unfortunately I have not written a rotation of this nature since most people come back differently depending on their delivery "encounters". Basically you should start back with the minimum (3 cardio at 20 minutes a day, one total body weight training once a week, stretching one to three times per week for about 10 minutes is great too)and add a few minutes to each program every week or every other week. Never do too much too soon since your body needs time to heal and reaquaint itself with vigorous activity. Also, it takes time for the hormone relaxin to leave your system after delivery. If you are breast feeding, this hormone may stay with you until you discontinue. This hormone causes softening of the joints, ligaments, and tendons which could effect the intensity of your workouts. Be cautious and listen to your body. As your stamina improves, add a little more, and so on! Good Luck!