Move it, mama: 6-Week Postpartum Fitness Series

Ready to reintroduce an exercise routine now that baby is here, but not sure where to start? We thought that might be the case. To help you find your fitness groove, we recruited Erica Ziel, founder of Core Athletica Inc. and Knocked-Up Fitness, certified personal trainer, pilates instructor, nutritionist and mom of three (whew!). She’s created a six-week postpartum plan featuring realistic objectives, can-do exercises and easy recipes to ease mamas smartly and safely toward their fitness goals.
The workouts focus on moving your entire body, with exercises to help reactivate muscles and strengthen target areas such as your glutes, hips, shoulders, back and deep core. Although the program was designed specifically with new moms in mind, many of these exercises are suited for pregnancy as well. Regardless of whether baby’s in your belly or in your arms, be sure to get clearance from your doctor before engaging in any exercise routine.

Remember that returning to your prebaby body will take time. It took your body a good nine months to transform into that beautiful pregnant body, and it can take just as long (or longer) to get it back to “normal.” Every small step makes a difference, though, and you’ll get there eventually thanks to equal parts determination and patience. Ready to get started? Let’s go, girls.
Week One Workout 
Week Two Workout 
Week Three Workout
Week Four Workout
Week Five Workout
Week Six Workout
Along with our 6-Week Postpartum Fitness Series, we’ll also be offering Six Weeks of Giveaways. Share your progress on Instagram (@pnmag) and support your fellow mamas on their fitness journeys. When you post a photo of your healthy exercise and eating habits, tag it #PNMag6Weeks to be entered for a chance to win that week’s prize. The more you tag, the better your odds!