3 min readNew DelhiMar 20, 2025 12:30 PM IST
First published on: Mar 20, 2025 at 12:30 PM IST
Wrestler Sakshi Malik, who recently embraced motherhood, reflected on her journey. “After the baby, there have been lots of changes. Sleepless nights and feeds. It is difficult but beautiful. I had the idea that as a woman, I will have to be prepared to leave wrestling after marriage and motherhood. I delivered a baby out of me — it was an unbelievable experience,” shared the Olympic bronze medallist who delivered her baby girl in November 2024.
She added that as an athlete, she was particular about her training every day during her pregnancy as well. “Even a day before her birth, I was training to ensure I keep myself fit for faster postpartum recovery. Then suddenly, she was in my hands, and it felt so different,” Malik said on the Rulebreaker show.
Opening up about her name, Malik said she “always wanted a daughter, and I wanted to name her Yoshiidaa Kadian” (after four-time Olympic-winning Japanese wrestler Saori Yoshida).
Can training every day during pregnancy help in faster postpartum recovery?
Dr Chanchal Mohanty, physiotherapist and lactation consultant, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, said that training regularly during pregnancy helps contribute to a faster postpartum recovery, provided the exercise is safe and personalised as per the woman’s health status and pregnancy stage.
Here’s what to note (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
“Engaging in moderate, pregnancy-safe workouts like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga will allow women to build strength, flexibility, and improve cardiovascular health. This, in turn, can ease labour and delivery,” said Dr Mohanty.
Moreover, staying active during pregnancy may reduce the risk of excessive weight gain, improve circulation, and enhance mental well-being.
Dr Mohanty noted that after childbirth, those women who exercise during pregnancy often experience quicker recovery and can regain muscle strength, improve energy levels, and manage post-birth weight. “Exercising daily can help to deal with postpartum depression and improve overall well-being. However, consult an expert before starting or continuing any exercise regimen during pregnancy. It is imperative to avoid strenuous activities without the doctor’s knowledge,” said Dr Mohanty.
Exercise shall be tailored trimester-wise for each mother.
“There are a set of exercises specifically designed for labour which help ease contractions and labour. Post C-section and normal delivery, rehabilitation is designed for 2-3 months to avoid post delivery complications and improve functions of daily activities,” said Dr Mohanty.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Sakshi Malik shares about motherhood (Photo: Sakshi Malik/Instagram) 
Here’s what to note (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
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