A Year After Childbirth, or It’s Never Too Late to Get Back in Shape

One year postpartum – consider it an advantage

Don’t beat yourself up if for some reason you didn’t manage to focus on your physical form soon after childbirth. Not all women adapt equally well to their new role, even if it’s not their first child. There may also be purely physiological problems that hinder physical exercises, so many wonder: “Is it possible to lose weight a year after childbirth?”

Decided to focus on your recovery after a year? There are even some advantages to this:

• “Postpartum” contraindications are finally a thing of the past – wounds or tears have healed, you don’t need to think about having had a cesarean section, etc.;
• Breastfeeding is no longer as significant – in the year of mature lactation, very little can harm it, and besides, the feeding routine has significantly changed, and some mothers by this time have already weaned;
• The daily routine, sleep, and wakefulness schedule have stabilized, making it easier for moms to plan their time and allocate it for themselves;
• An older baby can more likely be left in the care of relatives for a while;
• Minimal physiological restrictions for exercise, more opportunities for variety.

A year after childbirth, almost everything suits moms – yoga, gymnastics, Pilates, and cardio workouts, you can choose based on taste and effectiveness. Doubtful? Consult with our specialists, we will create an optimal individual program for you.

Why doesn’t it go away?

Many mothers hope that over time they will naturally return to great shape. Sometimes this happens: aided by lactation, everyday physical activity, and inherent genetic and constitutional traits. However, for the rest, 12 months can shatter this illusion. If the issue of weight and appearance remains relevant after such a long period, there are likely additional factors involved. If you’re asking yourself how to remove the post-pregnancy belly a year later, it won’t disappear on its own; the situation will require some assistance.

What could be the reason for excess weight and imperfect contours long after childbirth?

1. What do we eat? Our figure is ultimately the result of our diet. A diet should be balanced. Everyone is, of course, aware of the harm of excessive flour and sugar. But the reason for excess weight post-birth can also lie in some incorrect eating habits. During lactation establishment, calorie intake should be 30-35% higher than usual. By the first year, this need decreases, as breastfeeding ceases to be the main component of nutrition, but usual portions often remain the same.
2. Beware of diastasis! If the figure mostly slims down, but the belly still protrudes, the cause may be muscle separation. With diastasis, regular ab exercises not only fail to be effective but can also cause serious harm. If you need to reduce your belly post-childbirth after a year, first visit a surgeon. Physical exercises in this case should be chosen correctly.
3. Movement is life. Reassess your physical activity. Are you moving enough throughout the day? Are walks with your baby enough exercise or are you mostly just sitting on the bench? 10-20 minutes of exercising won’t bring the desired result with a sedentary lifestyle.
4. Hormonal imbalances and metabolism issues. It’s better not to tackle this on your own – you need to consult a doctor.

Tips for mothers of one-year-olds dreaming of getting in shape

1. No to diets, yes to balanced nutrition. It’s probably well-known that temporary strict limitations result in weight regain like a ‘pendulum’ effect. Healthy eating should become a way of life. Besides, it’s a great example for your baby, who is just getting used to adult food.
2. Consistency over intensity. You don’t need to dive into physical exercises with great zeal only to drop them completely after a week due to a pang of conscience. Schedule time for exercise every day or every other day, but make it a regular habit.
3. Consult a professional! Not the internet or friends, but certified specialists, especially medical professionals. Every case is unique, and certain steps might be necessary while others may be contraindicated. You can use our website’s services for this purpose.
4. The right routine. Exercises should be chosen not only for their effectiveness but also considering personal preferences. If you dislike running, for example, you can replace it with dancing. Elements of yoga are generally popular with everyone. Contact us, we’ll introduce you.
5. Additional methods. Besides diet correction and physical exercises, wraps, massage, swimming, sauna, and other pleasant procedures, if not contraindicated, can bring significant benefits.

So, how to lose belly fat a year after giving birth, lose weight, and get back in great shape even if a whole year has already passed? The recipe is simple: your decision – regularity – proper nutrition – physical activity – positive attitude.