One thing to keep in mind is that the more foldable and portable a treadmill is, the fewer special features it will tend to have. Foldable options with high speeds, large running belts and incline capabilities won't be able to fold as compactly as something with a smaller range of speeds and no console. Here are a few other things to consider before purchasing a foldable treadmill: We updated this article in March 2023 to add more information to each description based on testing and evaluation done by the Good Housekeeping Institute. Features: Features such as a touchscreen, built-in Bluetooth speakers and any other advanced settings will likely cost you extra. Decide whether you'll be satisfied with an LED display with standard buttons and controls or if you’d be happier with preset programs or a built-in screen offering on-demand workouts or training. Fernandes Da Mota PG, et al. 2015. Prevalence and risk factors of diastasis recti abdominis from late pregnancy to 6 months postpartum, and relationship with lumbo-pelvic pain. Manipulation Association of Chartered Physiotherapists 20(1):200-5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25282439 Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

The fitness and tech experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test sports equipment ranging from e-bikes to exercise bikes and rowing machines. We’ve historically vetted treadmills for ease of use, performance and safety. For this roundup, we feature treadmills that we’ve personally tested, newer units of similar models we've evaluated, equipment from reliable brands that have tested well in the past and top-selling products whose specifications we’ve reviewed. Artal R, et al. 2003. Guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for exercise during pregnancy and the postpartum period. British Journal of Sports Medicine 37:6-12. http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/37/1/6.full Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022] Don’t restrict eating. Those first few weeks after having a baby aren't for focusing on postpartum weight loss – they're for bonding with your baby and adjusting to your exciting (and yes, overwhelming!) new role as a parent. Starting a diet too soon after giving birth can not only hamper your mood and energy level, but also diminish your milk supply if you’re breastfeeding. Wear a supportive sports bra while working out, and try to nurse your baby before you exercise so your breasts won't feel uncomfortably full. If your breasts feel sore during workouts, try wearing two fitness bras for extra support. What are the signs that I may need to slow down on the postpartum exercise?BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2020. Committee opinion 650: Physical Activity and Exercise During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/04/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022] Too much physical activity during the first few weeks after delivery can cause any of the signs below. Call your OB or midwife if: If saving space is your top priority, look no further than the Echelon Stride. This compact, treadmill folds up to a height of just 10 inches to lay flat against the wall or easily slide under most beds. We like that it features a 4.6-foot running belt that will suit most runners and that it reaches speeds up to 12 mph, which is a higher max speed than most foldable treadmills. You'll also be able to take advantage of 12 incline levels.

For many people, a traditional treadmill can be the ultimate fitness tool for your home. Whether it's pouring outside or it's simply too late to go for a stroll outdoors, having the convenience of a treadmill steps away can be key to working toward a healthier active lifestyle. However, not only is this piece of home exercise equipment costly, but it can also take up a considerable amount of space. American Council on Exercise. 2019. Supporting the Postpartum Client. https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/professional/expert-articles/7285/supporting-the-postpartum-client/ Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

HIIT WORKOUT AT HOME

Join an exercise class for new moms. Try to find one taught by a postpartum exercise specialist. Many YMCAs, recreation centers, gyms, and yoga studios offer in-person (and sometimes virtual) exercise classes for new moms. Popular online programs, like Peloton and Daily Burn, have dedicated postpartum workouts you can stream from your house. If you can’t find a postpartum-specific class, try one that focuses on low-impact toning and stretching. Although WalkingPad offers other models that include a handrail and need to be stored upright, this P1 model keeps it very compact. The treadmill comes with a wireless remote control where you can do everything from accelerating and decelerating speed to monitoring time, mileage, calories and more.