Postpartum Fitness Testing

Pregnancy and childbirth significantly impact cardiovascular fitness:

• VO₂ max declines during pregnancy inactivity
• Establish postpartum baseline fitness
• Safe exercise intensity guidance
• Support gradual return to pre-pregnancy fitness
• Track fitness restoration progress

Medical clearance required before testing

• Uncomplicated Vaginal Birth: Typically cleared at 6 weeks
• C-Section: Typically cleared at 8-12 weeks
• Complicated Birth: Individual clearance from OB/GYN
• Always verify clearance for moderate-vigorous exercise

Wahoo KICKR Bike: Seated, no pelvic floor impact-often best early choice

Treadmill: Walking initially, progress to jogging when cleared by PT

Note: Running requires pelvic floor PT clearance after childbirth

Postpartum pelvic floor recovery is crucial:

• All postpartum women benefit from pelvic floor PT evaluation
• VO₂ max testing on bike is low-impact option
• Treadmill testing when cleared for running by pelvic floor PT
• We coordinate with your PT team

Many postpartum women have abdominal separation:

• VO₂ max testing is safe with diastasis recti
• Seated bike is most supportive option
• Core rehabilitation should occur alongside cardio
• Medical clearance still required

Combined VO₂ max and RMR testing supports healthy postpartum weight loss:

• RMR: Know your caloric needs (adjusted for breastfeeding if applicable)
• VO₂ max: Know safe exercise intensity
• Together: Create sustainable fat loss plan
• Maintain milk supply if breastfeeding

For postpartum athletes returning to sport:

• Establish current fitness baseline
• Realistic timeline expectations
• Gradual return to training intensity
• Balance training with recovery and infant care

VO₂ Max Test: $250

Complete postpartum fitness assessment with return-to-exercise guidance.

Medical clearance required from OB/GYN or midwife.

Fit Evaluations
311 Soquel Ave
Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Behind Hindquarter restaurant (second entrance off Dakota St.)

Contact:
Phone: 831-400-9227
Email: info@fitevals.com

Professional postpartum fitness testing for safe return to exercise after pregnancy.