Apple Fitness Plus's Latest Workout Collection is Great for New Mothers

Apple Fitness Plus's Latest Workout Collection is Great for New Mothers

Apple Fitness Plus has launched a collection of workouts designed to help post-pregnancy mothers reconnect with their bodies and allow them time to care for themselves.

Apple's $9.99/month workout service already offers a collection of classes dedicated to active living during pregnancy, and the latest collection is a curated, post-baby Apple Watch ring-closing Exercise Sequel.

Similar to the "Stay Active During Pregnancy" collection, the post-pregnancy collection is led by Apple Fitness Plus coaches who are mothers, including one who gave birth less than a year ago. The program is based on their experience as mothers and trainers, as well as the insights of obstetricians and gynecologists.

The collection has a scientific basis and is officially called "Return to Fitness After Childbirth" and offers seven 10-minute sessions. Class types include core, strength, and mindful cool down, but are customized to target the physical demands common to the stress spots of early motherhood. Pelvic floor muscle exercises are also included.

Like many of the Fitness Plus classes, the post-pregnancy class offers modifications that make each movement easier or more demanding. The movements may help with specific activities such as lifting a baby out of a crib, pushing a stroller, or carrying a car seat. Let's call it motherhood mechanics.

But motherhood is not only about taking care of the baby; it is also about taking care of oneself. According to the American Psychological Association, one in seven women may experience postpartum depression. Because postpartum depression is an extremely real and serious condition, exercise is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but getting moving and allowing your body the time it needs is preventative. Even better, exercise promotes sleep, relieves stress, and boosts energy.

The collection's introductory video and each of the seven classes include an important disclaimer for new mothers looking to work out. It encourages them to check with their doctors to make sure they are allowed to be physically active after giving birth.

I can't speak from experience as a mother, but I do know that I am my best self when I am active every day, even if I only have a little time. When the baby is napping, with the best baby monitor set up, you could spend 10 minutes working on your core or stretching out any stiff spots. You can even use Apple Fitness Plus' Time to Walk or Time to Run to get outside while pushing the stroller.

Apple Fitness Plus requires an Apple Watch. If you don't already have an Apple Watch, check out our guide to the best Apple Watch for you and the best Apple Watch deals available today.

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