Working out after C-section - how to start?

Ok, I had my 6-week pp appointment this morning and I got the all clear to start working out. I lost the pregnancy weight but I really need to tone up all over and especially the belly area obviously.

I wasn't able to work out during the majority of my pregnancy so I am really out of shape and definitely need to ease back into it. I have two little ones so time is of the essence. I have an elliptical machine in the house. I wish it was nice enough outside to walk but I can't really take the kids out in the arctic LOL.

How did you ladies get started again? Any advice? I am afraid to do too much in the beginning even though my incision is healing really well. Thanks!

Re: Working out after C-section - how to start?

I would start very slowly on the elliptical. Honestly, this is the bulk of my work out and I started at 8 weeks after my c-section. I also would wait on the situps- I think I started those at 3 months.

Re: Working out after C-section - how to start?

Thanks - I was thinking of just starting really slowly on the elliptical for a couple of weeks before really doing "exercises." How long/how frequently did you do the elliptical when you started?

Re: Working out after C-section - how to start?

There is an older program called "Walk Away the Pounds" by Leslie Sansone. I used it years ago and it was a nice way to just get kicked off. I see now that she has a bagillion DVD's to choose from.

The basic premise of the DVD's is that you could walk in the comfort of your own home. The one I have integrates simple moves that are low impact, like grape vine, gentle kicks, marching, knee lifts, etc. I have the 4 mile Express and also a 2 mile walk and a 3 mile walk.

Re: Working out after C-section - how to start?

I just got clearance also. I went back on Sat and did 30 mins on elliptical and some light arm workouts. Then I did a few crunches. I felt fine.

Re: Working out after C-section - how to start?

Re: Working out after C-section - how to start?

Thanks everyone!

Re: Working out after C-section - how to start?

After I got clearance, I started walking on the treadmill. I did it while DD napped in the swing (I was lucky..in those days she napped for hours in the swing!). I slowly built up my time and intensity. At about 11 or 12 weeks, I started adding situps..I specifically found a 10 min Pilates video on demand that I liked.

Over time I increased and started varying my workouts more.

Re: Working out after C-section - how to start?

Start out slow... I worked out through the pregnancy, but it slowed down a lot 3rd tri. Went from jogging to walking fast to grandma's pace. LOL!

After the c-section I got the ok around 6 weeks. You gotta remember you're not in the shape you were b4 so start walking on the tread for a half hour or the elliptical. Maybe some light weights.

Good luck!