Four Tips for Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy

Here are some motivational postpartum pointers to get you going in fitness.

Pregnancy Tip 1: Set Your Sights

If you haven't done so already, set a realistic goal for yourself — say, losing one pound per week. Work toward it by following a sensible weight-loss diet (the Postpartum Diethas all the nutrients you need; add about 300 calories a day if you're nursing), and by exercising regularly. Regular is the operative word here — working out for at least 30 minutes three times a week is essential to losing baby weight after pregnancy (and staying healthy for your little one). 

Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy Tip 2: Keep Moving!

Sticking to a diet is much easier if you stay active (and you’re already on the move with everyday baby care!) plus postpartum exercise can boost your metabolism. Find an activity you enjoy — jogging, yoga, cycling, swimming, even walking works — and plan it into your week. You'll get in shape even faster if you squeeze even a little extra activity into your daily routine. For example, leave the car in the garage and take the baby in his stroller for nearby errands. When you do drive, park a bit farther away than usual, and take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever you can. Every step counts toward your ultimate goal of burning more calories than you take in (the only way to shed those stubborn pounds!). 

Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy Tip 3: Team Up

When it comes to losing baby weight after pregnancy, you need all the support you can get — so make sure your partner is on board, too. Instead of watching TV, take a walk tonight. And together, make a commitment to sticking to a diet. Start by ridding your fridge and pantry of high-fat foods; then stock up on fruits and veggies, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products and lean meats, poultry, and fish that are good for you (no matter what you weigh). Keep an eye out for each other’s eating habits — no sneaking snacks! 

Losing Baby Weight After Pregnancy Tip 4: Think Positive

Most importantly, keep a positive attitude about sticking to a diet. Treat yourself to some smart snacking with healthy on-the-go noshes and focus on what you've accomplished so far (like having a baby and the weight you've already lost). And remember that just because you aren't at your prepregnancy weight yet doesn't mean you can't look fabulous. If your skinny clothes are still too skinny, buy a couple of fun things that you'll enjoy wearing as you make progress towards losing baby weight after pregnancy. A new haircut or makeup can also perk you up as you slim down. 

Exercising with Baby on Board: Some Fun Ways to help..

Course you want to get back into shape — and of course, finding time to work out can be next to impossible with a little one taking so much of your time. One way to get back into the fitness swing is to start exercising with your baby. Here are some exsample ideas on moving your butt (and whittling down your belly) with your little one at your side.

Walk the walk. Pop your baby in her/his stroller and hit the road (or the mall, if you prefer). A front carrier works too, and the extra weight will give your workout an extra boost. ( I use a carrier a lot it fantastic and so much easier) Or sign up for a stroller-based class or a personal trainer to come to your home, which both will give you a great cardio workout and it also tones your muscles — and if you go to a class you might even make some new mommy friends. I would wait to buy a jogging stroller or bike trailer until your baby is to hold their neck/head in a controled away to ride safely.

Take a hike. Ah, the great outdoors — it's a breath of fresh air for both of you. If you choose to hit the trail for a workout with baby, consider your baby's age and temperament before you set out. For one- to five-month-olds, use a front carrier to give head and neck support. How long a hike you can take depends on your stamina and your baby's. Remember that an infant, especially one who's not used to being confined in a carrier, will probably not last longer than 20 to 30 minutes without fussing. Those sturdy back carriers should be reserved for a sturdier baby (six- to 14-month-olds). Be sure to pack snacks (get ideas for smart snacking ), drinks, and nappies, and plan your trek ahead of time. Go early (or late) in the day to avoid the sun's rays, and whether it's winter or summer, dress both your baby and yourself appropriately. Layers work best.

Experiment with yoga and Pilates. Both can help increase your flexibility and strength using your own body for resistance — and it can be a great workout with baby as well. Once your cutie is at least four months old, try some mat exercises like this one that really targets those abs (yay!): Lie on your back, bend your knees and plant your feet flat on the floor, then prop the baby on your pelvis facing you (hold under her/him arms). Inhale and pull your navel toward your spine; exhale and lift your bottom and back off the floor, one vertebra at a time, until you've pulled your body into a straight line from chest to knees (keeping a careful grip on your baby, of course). Inhale, then roll back down (and give them a kiss). Repeat.

Get in the swim. Working out in the water is wonderful for both of you. You'll enjoy feeling weightless after all those months of feeling huge, and your baby enjoying the simple act of splashing their hands. And exercising with baby in the water is simple — you can use your baby as a weight by holding beneath the arms and lifting her up, then lowering her/him back into the pool. (make sure it's safe) 

Do a little dance. Get down with your darling to your favorite tunes (you won’t even notice you’re getting a workout with baby!). And not only will your little one love the movement, you'll also foster a passion for music. (No head-banging, Mama, no matter how radical the song might be…and don't pump up the volume too much — tiny ears are extra-sensitive.)