The big question: when can I start cycling again after pregnancy? You don’t want to hinder the recovery of your nether regions and you feel guilty leaving your newborn with someone else; but at the same time you’re desperate to lose weight, get fit and have a little you time again. When is it okay to do it? Well, that depends on the individual.
If you were lucky enough to have had a normal, problem-free delivery then you will normally be okay to start cycling again after just six weeks. When you go for your six week postpartum check-up with the nurse or doctor, ask them if they think you are ready to start gently exercising again and if they give you the okay then you’re fine to give it a try. Don’t throw yourself into it too fast though because no matter how great you’re feeling, your body still has been through a huge ordeal. And definitely invest in some padded cycling shorts.
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If you suffered perianal tearing or had an episiotomy it is likely to be a while longer until you are ready to get back on a bike. Until you are fully recovered from the tearing or cut, it is unwise to start exercising again because the extra pressure and exertion could impede the recovery process. How long it will take to completely recover and for you to get back on the bike varies between individuals but you will normally get the okay from your doctor between eight and twelve weeks after the delivery.
If you had a caesarean it is likely to be a little bit longer before you are ready to start cycling again too. Most women that have had C-sections find that they are okay to begin exercising again about three months after the birth of their baby. If you feel that you could be ready, make an appointment with your doctor to get their okay before you give it a try.
It can be annoying waiting for the doctor’s okay to get back onto your bike after a pregnancy, but the last thing you want to do in your rush to get your pre-pregnancy body back is reverse the healing process. So, don’t jump onto the saddle before you’re completely ready, start with short, gentle rides, and if you’re feeling any kind of discomfort or soreness stop and go back to see your doctor again. In short, listen to what your own body is telling you.
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