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I am really positive that the effects of regular exercise cannot be underestimated. I’ve always been active throughout my life, and, like most people, have periods where there or more demands on my time which means that my time to myself can be a bit less. It’s really easy to make excuses to not exercise, and I think it’s important to, instead, look for solutions.
One of the things I have really tried to prioritize again over recent months is exercise. Ever since I’ve had the children, I have found that making time to get out and be purposefully active leads to me being much more patient with the children and much more present.
One of the things I was worried about when I rejoined the gym after having H, was the impact of jumping around and running. I am sure many mums have, at some stage, noticed that they have experienced some level of SUI – and it’s no surprise when it’s thought that around a third of women suffer from this.
Becoming a mum sees enormous changes take place both physically and mentally and I know that, no matter what I do, I won’t ever look like my pre-baby self and it is natural to see some insecurities creeping in when you start a form of exercise again.
After H was born I took up running again and found that I had aches and pains where I hadn’t previously and needed to get my gait analysis checked again. I changed up the surfaces I ran on and I have since done much more overall strength work in the gym.
I’ve now completely changed my focus and do much more resistance and weight work. I am realistic that I am approaching an age where I need to be mindful of further hormonal changes and do my best to counteract some of the effects of that now. I know that I am likely to have bone density issues as I get older so I’m fighting this with a weight training programme with my PT . The programme that I am working through works on my overall body strength and it’s something I enjoy a lot; never did I think I’d get a buzz from Olympic weightlifting!
When I first started lifting heavy weights SUI was a concern for me, as it had been when I started running. I was beginning to be more mindful about how much I drank before and during exercise and, if out for a long run, I’d try and factor in a supermarket to run past to use the loo. Since I have been working out regularly I have noticed that this is no longer a concern for me in the way that it was, and I think that I have probably strengthened my pelvic floor somewhat.
If however SUI is something that you are struggling with and it’s affecting your confidence to get up and out and active then it might be worth taking a look at Contrelle. Contrelle is a product that promises to help minimise leaks in a discreet and convenient way. It’s specifically designed for women with SUI and their FAQ’s are really helpful to read in determining if this is the right product for you.
Contrelle will also be at the National Running Show this weekend in Farnborough so if you’re in the area it might prove a great opportunity for you to check the product out and learn more.
Being active is really important, ever more so given the last year. SUI can be embarrassing and inconvenient, but there are solutions, such as Contrelle, out there.
