The human body is an amazing machine - the entire production of having a baby is an incredible miracle that can only be described as awesome...but the way we look after having that baby is not quite so awesome. There are tons of programs out there designed to help you get your body back - but the key is finding one that caters to the fact that you now have this little life to care for, a raging surge of hormones to deal with, and that certain parts of your anatomy are in the process of "healing."

What's your best bet when battling the baby buldge? First, you should remember that you are hormonal. It's normal to be overly senstive about your weight, to look yourself in the mirror and think "I'll never have sex again," and to be downright mad when you can't zip your jeans...don't fight your hormones, embrace them. Your hormones will play a major role in the time it takes to start dropping baby weight. If you're in a hormonal rage, it means your body is getting back into a normal balance. A normal balance is more cohesive to weight loss and body recovery.

You should start increasing your activity a little at a time as your body tolerates. It might be difficult to manage your time with the new addition to your family - so it will be important to find a routine that makes your little one the priority. If you live in a friendly climate, start by including a walk into your daily routine. They make great jogging strollers that will acomodate a baby carrier. If you opt against a jogging stroller, your standard model will work fine.

You should also try a home friendly workout routine. Because your baby is so new, taking he or she to the gym is likely a mistake. But you can place the baby in a bassinet or a bouncer and do a low impact pilates routine that takes only about 20 minutes a day. Pilates is wonderful for getting your flexibility back while you strenghten your muscles. Be creative with things you can do with your baby in your arms. Hold your bundle of joy and do a few squats or toe stands. Do 'baby curls' (these are great)...simply hold your little one under each arm, extend your fingers so the baby's head is supported. Bend your arms as if doing a standard barbell curl, kiss the baby, extend your arms down, raise and repeat.

Your new baby will sleep about 20 of the 24 hours in a day - but that doesn't mean he's sleeping more than two or three hours at a time...If at all possible, sleep when the baby sleeps until you've accumulated at least ten hours a day...This may be challenging if you have other kids in the house - but sleep is SO important for helping your body recover. Stress and lack of rest contribute to fat storage. Resting as often as you can will give you the energy you need to take care of the baby and yourself.

As for your diet, eat as clean as possible. If you're breastfeeding then you'll have to be aware of your food intake anyway, so this is the perfect time to clean up the ole snack shelf. Breastfeeding will help your body return to normal at a faster rate - but if you can't breastfeed (many wome can't), it's okay...you will simply need to add more fiber to your diet and watch your calories a little more closely.

A big contributor to that baby pooch is the fact that your uterus is still oversided. Buying a compression garment/girdle (the Dreambody brand is my favorite) will help push your uterus back where it belongs more quickly, as well as give you a more sleek transition look. You will be able to fit into clothes more comfortably as well.

As your baby grows, you will be able to tweak your routine to fit your new circumstance.

If you'd like tips on your current status, or if you'd like to have a plan laid out for you step by step, contact personaltrianyou@hotmail.com - I will be happy to help you.

Remember, it took nine months to get there, it will take some time to get back - but if you're persistent and keep a positive attitude you'll get there faster!