No picture today, just an update on postpartum exercise.
When I got discharged from the hospital, I was told I could resume exercise as soon as I felt OK. I told myself I was going to hold off on HIIT training and lower body training until a few weeks later but I felt OK to resume upper body exercise. So I did that twice last week. My third day 3 of exercising last week, I felt REALLY GOOD and decided I was going to push myself.. well that was a lesson learned! I typically have a good mind and body connection and am well aware of what is too much for myself, however, post pregnancy is way different. I write this so that others can learn from my mistakes and not overexert their bodies too soon! Check with your doctors, but usually the safe zone is after 6 weeks postpartum (given you didn't have any complications). Again, I was told to exercise as soon as I felt OK, so maybe the guidelines are on the verge of changing. I said I wasn't going to do lower body but I had a lot of energy and really wanted to do lunges with the barbell. I may of also done squats on the machine. I only did about 4 quads exercises but I super set everything with a shoulder exercise (this helps promote fat loss). It wasn't till the next day that I figured it was too much (my body hasn't fully healed). Here's the thing: women want their bodies to bounce back ASAP and it can be frustrating when it takes longer than expected. I mean, it does take 9-10 months to grow the baby, so it should take just as long (if not longer) to get back to pre-pregnancy body and weight. I have been asked about my post body progress, and while I haven't posted a picture yet, I'm not entirely disappointed. I went into it though knowing it takes TIME. I'm not in a rush nor am I "dieting" because that can effect breastfeeding immensely AND I'm not about to be super harsh on myself. However, I am in tune with what I am consuming and I'm tracking my macros about 90% of the time (just to monitor how much I'm consuming, not necessarily for weight loss right now). Anyways, I gained a total of 23lb while pregnant (keep in mind she came early). Within the first two weeks I lost 14-15lb. The last few pounds seem to be lingering. I know I'm only 3 weeks postpartum, so I'm not too hard on myself. Like I mentioned before, being healthy, getting back into a fitness routine and taking care of myself (and baby!) are my top priorities. I have a feeling everything will go back to place (weight and body) with a little more time. It's amazing how your body changes little by little day by day. So for those mammas postpartum wanting to get their bodies back, take your time. Take it day by day but do something each and everyday that will make you one step closer to your goal. You'll get there! In good health, Cristina
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AuthorCristina Panagopoulos is the owner and founder of CW Physique, an in-home personal training and nutrition company. She has been in the fitness industry for over a decade and loves helping others transform their lives. She is certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine as a personal trainer and metabolic coach along with American Fitness Professionals & Associates certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant. Over the years, Cristina gained specialty certifications through the American Council of Exercise for Orthopedic Exercise and Pre and Post Natal Exercising. Cristina started this blog as a casual and personal journey through her experiences of pregnancy and later on motherhood. She wants to educate females on proper fitness and nutrition who are going through pregnancy and motherhood. For more information, please email Cristina directly at [email protected] Archives
October 2016
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