The Truth About Post-Pregnancy Fitness

Somehow as expectant moms, we harbor the hope that after a few hours of labor, we'll walk out of the hospital with our beautiful baby in our pre-pregnancy jeans, and then we'll spring back up the next week, feeling lean, fit and rested.

Well, it just ain't so! Give yourself a break, but do put away those maternity jeans, because you don't want to stop trying to get back down to your "real" pre-baby size.

The truth is, even after your six- to eight-week maternity leave, you may not be back in pre-baby fighting shape.

That doesn't mean you're off the hook; don't lower your expectations. But also don't set impossibly unrealistic fitness and weight-loss standards, because when we can't achieve them, we'll feel discouraged.

The best thing to do is realize that it's nine months up and nine months down with the weight and fitness battle. This is a realistic, healthy goal, both physically and mentally, for postpartum weight and fitness.

• You can forget those uninterrupted workouts. These are a distant memory once a baby hits the scene. But you can find 10 minutes a couple times a day to workout. (Recent research says we get the same cardiovascular and calorie-burning benefits with three 10-minute workouts spread out throughout the day as you would by doing all your exercise in one shot.) For instance, you have home equipment such as a jump rope, a step or some weights, keep it out and available for those moments you're able to squeeze in a few jumps or pumps.
• No home gym? Have the stroller loaded and ready for a quick stroll around the block. It's OK to leave those dirty formula bottles in the sink for a sec to drop and give yourself 20 push-ups.
• Walk as a family affair. Make your afternoon stroll an exercise event for you and your child. Walk briskly enough so you feel slightly breathy, but not out of breath. Not only will you burn more than 100 calories a mile, you'll also teach your child from the get-go that physical activity is an essential part of her daily routine.
• Make smart ''investments'' in your health. For example, invest in support -- a baby-sitter, a mother's helper, a partner or spouse, a neighbor. If money is an issue, look for a trusted neighbor who will watch your child for an hour while you go for a run in exchange for you watching her child while she runs errands on Tuesday.
• Invest in equipment. If your budget doesn't allow for fancy home equipment or a gym membership, buy a jogging stroller to make your walks or runs outside a breeze. Invest in your wardrobe. A snazzy new sports bra and matching bike shorts, even if you hide them under a comfy shirt, will give a little bounce to your step.
• Invest in a personal trainer. A few sessions with a trainer can help to rebuild your workout habits and be a source of personalized advice. Invest time -- because the time you spend exercising is an investment in your health and self-esteem.