by Mind and Body coach, Danni Vee, Founder of My Fit Tribe
The battles of the tummy after kids is REAL. If you’re a mama you know exactly what I’m talking about! It is true you will never lose that extra bit of skin, but for me I celebrate the privilege of carrying a baby. We are STRONG and truly BLESSED to have experienced such a wonderful journey.
Have patience and trust your body while it heals and works itself back to normal. It took nine months for your abdomen to stretch to accommodate a your baby, so it makes sense that it can take at least that long to tighten back up.
Can you lose the tummy FAT? Yes, you can and here is 5 easy steps to get started on today…
1 // GET MOVING
Keep it very simple after you have had bub. Start out with walking and just start moving. Once you have the clearance from your doctor, join a women’s friendly exercise class where they specialise in pre/post natal training.
2 // FUEL YOUR BODY
We’ve all heard the saying before, “Abs are made in the kitchen”. This could not be more true! Focus on fuelling your body with whole foods that will give you energy with a new baby and won’t leave you feeling sluggish and bloated. Some great foods to try are oats, green salads, smoothies and wholegrain carbs.
3 // BABY STEPS
You can start your kegel exercises straight away, however be kind to your body and begin with doing only 1 set a day. Build up to doing these exercises 3 times a day with 20 reps. Kegel exercises help with incontinence, tightening of your pelvic floor and strengthening your abs.
4 // JOIN A YOGA OR PILATES CLASS
It’s time for some “Zen” mamas! These types of classes focus on great core strength and strengthening your pelvic floor… say good bye to peeing yourself when you sneeze!
5 // HYDRATE EVERY DAY
Our bodies are made up of more than 60% water. We need to stay hydrated to function at our optimum. Aim to drink 2-3L of water every day to. This is a great goal to reach while breastfeeding and focusing on keeping up milk supply as well. Tip: Pop a bottle in your bag at the start of the day or in the car and aim to finish that by the end of the day!
You may also like BODY + SOUL: 5 Tips to be an Active, Happy and Healthy Mama and MOTHERHOOD: How to survive a mama off day.
Main image by Liana Mikah
MD®
