Many new moms find it difficult to shed “baby weight” after giving birth. The trick to losing this extra weight is, of course, diet and exercise. But which exercises? Which diet will work for you? Tending a newborn takes a lot of time, and many mothers struggle with finding time to take care of themselves, too.
Unfortunately, we don’t have all the answers. But we do have one exercise that can help without causing strain.
Before starting any exercise routine, be sure to check with your doctor. There are some exercises – even yoga stretches – that may be too strenuous for the time being. Make sure you know what your doctor feels your body can handle.
The No Strain Crunch
This exercise gives you the benefits of crunches without the possible neck and back strain.
- Sit in a chair.
- Put one hand on the area around your belly button so you’ll be able to feel the abdominal muscles contracting.
- Inhale deeply, expanding your abdomen as much as possible.
- Exhale, pulling your belly button in toward your spine
- Contract your abdominals five times, briefly.
- This is one rep. Start with however many feel comfortable, then build your sets up to about 10 reps.
Again, check with your doctor before trying this one. For most women, it causes no strain, but does give the proper muscles enough of a workout to tone them. Aerobic exercise is also important, not just for losing baby fat but for overall wellness.
