Getting fit after pregnancy?

I am about to have my 3rd baby very soon. I have been on Bed Rest for a few weeks and so far durning the pregnancy I have gained about 40 pounds...

I was a little over weight when I got pregnant but I had been on Weight Watchers and had lost about 30 pounds.. I was feeling good and looking much better..

I would love to hear from some proffesionals on the matter of getting back in shape after pregnancy...

I feel like after weeks of bed rest I want to just take off running and never stop.. I am so anxious to get some energy and work out but I don't want to over do it.

What would be the best plan for me to get started.. walking, swiming, weight training? Any suggestions would be helpful. thank you!

Well, there are lots of things you could do, and it's great that your saying you have so much energy! You must be busy with the baby and the other kids at home! One idea would be to go on walks with the baby, pushing it in the stroller. It'll be a workout that's not only cardio, but strength training for your arms. If you really want to kick things into gear, go for a run in the morning, (hopefully the baby doesn't keep you up too late). Running in the morning will kick start your metabolism and if you do so before everyone's up, it'll be out of your way for the day. Start off slow and work your way up. Make sure to give yourself days off as well. Swimming is also great exercise. It's relaxing and easy on the joints. Since you have been on bed rest, you want to make sure you don't put too much stress on your joints and muscles all at once so swimming is a great idea. Don't get carried away. Eat healthy and be happy. Taking care of the children should be a workout in itself. Good luck with the new baby and take it easy!

Edit: I just reread the question and realized the 3rd baby isn't born yet. As the other answerer said, it'd be best to take it easy, (maybe just go for a couple walks every once and a while), before the baby comes. Since you're probably seeing a doctor very often right now, ask him or her for suggestions. I wish you the best of luck and a safe and successful rest of your pregnancy. Congratulations!

Mothers who breastfeed lose their pregnancy weight much quicker than mothers who don't (500+ calories a day are lost through breastfeeding). Walking is also great, not just for you but for the baby as well (you get the exercise, baby's body produces vitamin D from sun exposure). I would wait several weeks after delivery before beginning a weight training program. Good luck with your delivery!
I am a new mom and
a Registered Dietitian (RD)http://bitwine.com/advisors/webrd...