- Speak with your doctor before exercising. Although you may be anxious to begin losing the pregnancy weight, wait until your incision heals to start a workout routine. Exercising beforehand can weaken the stitch line. Talk to your doctor before engaging in any type of physical activity.
- Take a brisk walk. Wait 3 months before beginning a vigorous workout after a C-section. In the meantime, build your stamina and take a brisk power walk. Walk for 30 minutes or longer at least three times a week. This will help you burn calories and fat, and lose the pregnancy weight.
- Reduce your calorie intake. While pregnant, many women become accustomed to "eating for two." If you're trying to lose weight after a cesarean section, eat 500 fewer calories a day. Limit your carb and sugar intake, and stay away from fast and fried foods.
- Breastfeed your baby. If you're unable to engage in physical activity due to pain from a C-section, consider breastfeeding your baby. Breastfeeding burns about 500 calories a day, and it'll help you shed the pregnancy pounds.
- Exercise your abdominal muscles. Once your incision heals, participate in workouts that target your mid-section. Crunches, abdominal workouts and pilates can burn calories and sculpt your stomach.
