How Soon Can I Start Running After Giving Birth?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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In general, Cioce says it’s wise to

wait 12 weeks after birth

to start running. However, you can start the active recovery and training process beginning at 6 weeks postpartum.

Can I run 2 weeks postpartum?



Light jogging is reasonable after 2–4 weeks

, but [you] should check with [your] doctor first. If the [you had] a cesarean section, [you] should take it more slowly. [You] can start with walking and work [your] way up; nothing heavy, prolonged or strenuous without first checking with [your] doctor.”

What happens if you run too soon after birth?

“Usually by about six months postpartum, the pelvis is back into a neutral position,” she says. “But if you didn’t run through your whole pregnancy, starting to run again too soon, with those tight hip flexor muscles,

can aggravate it

and make it worse.”

Can I start running 4 weeks postpartum?

The guidelines set by the American College of Obstetrics state that running is usually

okay at 4-6 weeks postpartum with doctor’s approval

. However, based on clinical expertise, our opinion is that you shouldn’t return to running until 12 weeks postpartum.

What is good running technique?

While jogging, maintain good posture, engage your core, and gaze forward. Avoid tilting your head down and slumping your shoulders. Broaden your chest, and keep it lifted as you draw your shoulders down and back. Keep your hands loose, and use a

relaxed arm swing

. Avoid crossing your arms in front of your body.

Is running good for postpartum?

Is Running Good For Postpartum?

Any type of exercise can be good for you in the postpartum period

. You just have to make sure that you’re ready for it. Running too soon in the postpartum period can lead to pain, muscular/joint injuries, and worsening of pelvic floor dysfunction.

Why do I have to wait 6 weeks after giving birth?

Pregnancy leads to a lot of physical changes to your body. That’s why it’s important to give yourself four to six weeks after delivery

before you have sex again

. During your recovery period, the uterus will shrink, hormones will return to pre-pregnancy levels, and muscles will regain strength and stability.

How soon can you do squats after giving birth?

Most women should be able to squat anywhere from

3-10 days after a vaginal delivery

. The more active you were before and during your pregnancy, the sooner you will be able to squat. If you never exercised before giving birth, then you need to take your time.

How do you breathe when you run?

During high-intensity runs or sprints, it’s recommended that you

breathe through your mouth

since it’s more efficient. Inhaling and exhaling through your mouth allows more oxygen to enter your body and fuel your muscles.

What is the proper way to run or jog?


Running is faster

, uses more kilojoules and demands more effort from the heart, lungs and muscles than jogging. Running requires a higher level of overall fitness than jogging. Both running and jogging are forms of aerobic exercise.

How can I run longer without getting tired?

  1. Warm up adequately. Warm up for a minimum of 20 minutes by walking or jogging at a very easy pace. …
  2. Practice proper breathing techniques. …
  3. Try running indoors on a treadmill. …
  4. Incorporate walk breaks in your running.

How long does it take your organs to go back after pregnancy?

In addition to the uterus returning to its normal shape (which often happens with contraction-like sensations or cramp-like feeling), the organs in your abdominal cavity are shifting back into their normal places – including your urethra, vagina and anus.

Do your hips widen after birth?

Binding the hips can be done after each pregnancy as

hips will expand with each delivery

. Some women may not experience wider hips after their first delivery, but may see increased widening with each subsequent pregnancy.

Do your hips go back to normal after pregnancy?

Other long-term post-baby body changes:

Your hips may be forever slightly widened too

, after having expanded for childbirth, and your nipples may be darker and bigger as well.

Why am I so tight after having a baby?

The pelvic floor muscles elongate during pregnancy and they are stretched with birth. As a result, “

the muscles usually tighten up in response

,” after birth Mortifoglio says. Extended pushing, tearing, stitches, and/or an episiotomy only increase the tension, with additional inflammation and pressure to the area.

What happens if you don’t wait 6 weeks after birth?

Pregnancy can cause some physical changes. Most doctors recommend waiting 4–6 weeks to

resume sexual intercourse after delivery

. The body must heal from labor, especially following an intensive surgery, such as a cesarean birth

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.