Post-Partum Workout Routine: Getting Fit With Meghan Markle

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Now that Meghan Markle has truly become part of the Royal family, we can't help but continue to be fascinated from this side of the pond. The Duchess of Sussex and LA-native made her first public appearance since giving birth to her precious son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.

She appeared at the annual Trooping the Colour parade in London – the Queen's official birthday extravaganza. It didn't seem too long ago that rumors about Meghan’s pregnancy began with Ladbrokes even running a feature titled ‘Royal Baby 2019: Everything You Need to Know’ to give readers a run-down on all the possibilities including where the baby was going to be born, what it was going to be called and even whether it was going to be a boy or girl. But time breezed by so quickly and the new Royal baby is already garnered column inches in papers across the world. In the parade, Markle looked lovely in a navy-blue dress and had that post-pregnancy glow.

Now everyone’s curious about her plans to regain her fitness, considering that the former Suits actress was known to be strict about her exercise and meditation routine. Luckily for you, Royal expert Katie Nicholl has the answers to the many questions the public are asking.

Meghan’s postpartum routine:

Nicholl says that "before she became pregnant, you know, Meghan was very fit. She was very into her fitness regime. She used to run around the park in Kensington, but she has been taking it easy." The Duchess’ approach has been very holistic and very gentle.

The main activity that Markle is focusing on, according to the source, is yoga, which is a practice that’s always been part of her routine. Her mother, Doria Ragland, is a yoga teacher and actually took up a course on postpartum yoga to help her own daughter ease into motherhood.

Instead of running or weight training, Markle is also enjoying short walks around Windsor Great Park, with no hard training or weights. Her plan, it seems, is to take up gentler activities while she's still recovering from the challenges of labor.

Starting your own routine:

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Exercise physiology experts Nigel Stepto and Cheryce Harrison point out that working out is highly recommended, but when to begin training ultimately depends on the woman’s experience during pregnancy and if she had any complications during delivery. It’s generally safe to resume a fitness routine about six weeks after a natural childbirth, as long as it’s done gradually, like Markle’s plan.

Other than post-natal yoga and short walks, you can try aqua aerobics, Pilates, and very light resistance training. You can also try attending classes at a yoga studio; we mentioned how Set and Flow emphasizes that yoga is about being kind to yourself and focusing on your breathing. This applies to the way you approach fitness, especially right after childbirth.

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However, moms who’ve had a C-section and experienced complications with their delivery might need to take three months or longer to recover. Once the wait is over, don’t forget to get clearance from your doctor to allow you to workout again. If there’s any discomfort in your midsection or pelvic area, core-strengthening exercises performed in post-natal yoga or Pilates are a great starting point. However, if you have any issues don't hesitate to consult with medical experts.

There you have it: Meghan Markle’s approach to post-partum fitness, which is relaxed and easily for new moms to get to grips with. It highlights the importance of incorporating physical activity, even at a very gradual pace, after childbirth. One thing you can learn from Meghan Markle is to take it slow and respect your post-natal body. You might already want to start fitting into your old pair of jeans again, but it’s natural— and recommended— to take some time off from physical activity and let your body heal.