Recovery from a C-section delivery is indeed a crucial and gradual process for new mothers. It’s essential to proceed slowly and steadily, beginning with gentle movements and progressively increasing activity levels as the body heals. Lataa Saberwal, an actor, also adopted this approach after the birth of her son.
She recently took to Instagram to share her first exercise post C-section, with the goal of shedding approximately 20 kilograms of postpartum weight. Surprisingly, her chosen exercise is walking! Walking is an excellent choice for post-C-section recovery because it is a low-impact and accessible form of exercise that can be tailored to an individual’s pace and comfort level. It provides numerous physical and mental benefits without putting excessive strain on the body, making it a safe and effective option for new mothers looking to regain their fitness and well-being.
Lataa stated she used to simply walk for 20 minutes. “Gradually, I converted it to brisk walking and then I started walking even more fast with my headphones on. So, please do not underestimate the power of a simple and basic walk.”
Taking a cue from the actor, we decided to understand from an expert how a simple walk can be helpful for new mothers post their C-section delivery.
According to Dr Anusha Rao P, consultant obstetrics and gynaecology, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, “Post ceasarean section, while recovering, it’s essential to prioritise your health and fitness, but it’s equally important to do so safely. One excellent way to begin your post-C-section fitness journey is by walking.”
Let’s delve into why walking is an excellent exercise for new mothers after a C-section, as explained by Dr. Rao:
- Cardiovascular Benefits: Walking provides cardiovascular benefits without putting excessive strain on the body. It is an ideal choice for gradually easing into a postpartum fitness routine, allowing new mothers to improve their cardiovascular health.
- Mental Well-Being: Taking a leisurely walk outdoors can have a positive impact on mental well-being. It can reduce stress and boost energy levels during the early days following a C-section, which can be physically and emotionally challenging.
- Core Engagement and Circulation: Walking engages core muscles and promotes circulation, which can aid in the healing process of abdominal muscles and the incision site. This gentle exercise helps strengthen the body’s foundation.
- Gradual Progression: New mothers can start with short, slow walks, typically lasting 10-15 minutes. These walks can be done on flat, even surfaces, such as around the home or in a nearby park. It’s essential to pay close attention to the body’s signals and stop and rest if any pain, discomfort, or fatigue is experienced.
- Increasing Intensity: As strength improves and the body heals, new mothers can gradually increase the duration of their walks and even incorporate slight inclines to make the walks more challenging. This gradual progression is essential for avoiding overexertion and ensuring a safe recovery.
However, starting a walking routine after a C-section requires patience and caution. “Before beginning any exercise program, consult your obstetrician to ensure you’re physically ready for any activity. Typically, after 4-6 weeks post-C-section, the doctor may approve to begin light exercise,” she stated.
In summary, walking is a safe and effective exercise for new mothers recovering from a C-section delivery. It offers both physical and mental benefits and can be tailored to individual comfort and fitness levels, making it an excellent choice for postpartum fitness.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
