Physical activity for women after childbirth: birth to 12 months (text of the infographic)
Published 7 September 2019
漏 Crown copyright 2019
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The infographic summarises the UK Chief Medical Officers鈥� physical activity guidelines, 2019.
Physical activity:
- provides time for yourself 鈥� reduces worries and depression
- helps to control weight and return to pre-pregnancy weight
- improves tummy muscle tone and strength
- improves fitness
- improves mood
- improves sleep
If you鈥檙e not active, start gradually.
If you鈥檙e already active, keep going.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity every week.
This can be achieved:
- out and about
- during leisure time
- at home
Examples of moderate intensity physical activity include:
- jogging
- walking
- cycling
- climbing stairs
- yoga
- dancing
- playing with your newborn
Start pelvic floor exercises as soon as you can and continue daily.
Build back up to muscle strengthening activities twice a week.
It鈥檚 safe to be active. There is no evidence of harm for post-partum women.
Depending on your delivery listen to your body and start gently.
You can be active while breastfeeding.