The postpartum period is associated with decreases in physical activity levels, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and pelvic floor muscle function, but little scientific evidence exists on how best to initiate and progress exercise in the postpartum period. This proposal aims to improve habitual physical activity levels, neuromuscular health (i.e., strength, fatigability, symptom burden) and overall wellbeing (i.e., decreased fear of movement, improved sleep quality, improved perception of quality of life) through participation in a weekly exercise program. This study will help to inform postpartum exercise recommendations and is novel as it allows participants to incorporate their children into the exercise routine, thus removing a primary barrier to physical activity/exercise.
18 years of age or older
gave birth in the 24 months prior to study enrollment
less than 6 weeks postpartum or not medically appropriate to engage in exercise regardless of time since childbirth (will be screened using the Get Active Questionnaire for Postpartum)
prescription anti-inflammatory/pain medications that are taken daily;
significant orthopedic conditions that would contraindicate performance of the fatigue task and participation in the exercise intervention (such as fractures, severe scoliosis, etc)
moderate to severe cardiovascular &/or pulmonary disease that contraindicates participation in exercise