Staying Active While Breastfeeding: Tips, Benefits & Local Support

Staying active after having a baby is incredibly beneficial for both you and baby. From boosting mood and energy levels to supporting postpartum recovery, movement can be a powerful part of your postnatal wellbeing. In this article, we’ll share guidance, tips, and advice to help you find a healthy balance while breastfeeding, plus signpost to local sessions like Bridgwater Moving Mums, Freedom’s Moving Mum groups, and postnatal yoga in Minehead and Nynehead. We’re also looking into launching a buggy walk in Minehead soon!

Physical Activity While Breastfeeding

Information & Benefits:

• Moderate-intensity exercise (e.g., brisk walking, cycling) is safe and does not affect milk supply, composition, or infant growth.
• Regular activity improves:
  • Mood
  • Energy levels
  • Postpartum weight management

Guidelines: The UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity guidelines recommend: 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity for postpartum women, including those breastfeeding.

Tips for Active Mothers:

• Feed or pump before workouts to reduce discomfort.
• Wear a high-support bra.
• Stay hydrated. (especially important for those that are breastfeeding)
• Rest when needed as recovery is essential.

Physical Activity Sessions: 

• Bridgwater Moving Mums
• Moving Mum Sessions at Freedom Leisure: Wincanton Sports Centre & Westlands Sport and Leisure Centre
• Our postnatal Yoga in Minehead sessions will resume in September. More information will be released about his on our website soon.
• We are also in the process of exploring Buggy Walks in Minehead!

Support:

• Support & Advice from the NHS
• Somerset Foundation Trust – NHS Support & Guidance
• Infant Feeding Team – Musgrove Facebook Group
• Somerset Health Visitors
• National Breastfeeding Helpline
• And, if you’re looking for nutritional support and advice, take a look at the NHS’s helpful article on breastfeeding and diet 

To find out more on any upcoming courses or sessions, please follow us on Facebook: @InItTogetherSomerset