What's the best way to lose weight after having a baby?

So, your bundle of joy has arrived and you have successfully been able to get into a routine with your baby. Most new mothers, at this time, begin to get enthusiastic about getting back to their pre-pregnancy weight. This period of breast feeding is not the best time to start any diet program, however, with your doctors agreement, it may be a great time to start getting back into some more physical activity.

Goal setting of about one pound a week weight loss is very reasonable and will keep you and your baby healthy and happy. Adding some aerobic activity into your schedule will be helpful. You can choose from swimming, brisk walking or finding a mom and baby fitness class in your area. It is important to work large muscle groups first since they use up more energy and thus accelerate weight loss. To maximize your time, be sure to workout at 60 - 80 % of your maximum heart rate. (Maximum heart rate  can be calculated by subtracting your age from 220).

If you are a beginner exerciser, start off with 30 minutes per exercise session and aim for three sessions a week. If you are more experienced, you may want to start of moderately, 30 - 50 minutes, three sessions a week. If you are an advanced exerciser, be sure not to push yourself too hard from the beginning. Gradually work up to the intensity that you are used to. Remember that every individual and every pregnancy is different and you will need to listen to your body to notice if you can do more or should be doing less.

Weight loss should, however, become easier once your little one has been weaned off of breast milk. Ladies that endure a C-section during birth would need to take weight loss a little slower that ladies who sought a vaginal birth. Be sure that your incision has healed completely and get the approval of your doctor before starting any fitness and weight loss program.