The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) has officially released its much-anticipated 2025 Canadian Guideline for Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, and Sleep throughout the First Year Postpartum, offering new, evidence-based recommendations for physical and mental well-being in the first 12 months after childbirth.

The new Guideline serves as a critical link between the 2019 Canadian Guideline for Physical Activity throughout Pregnancy and the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guideline for Adults 18–65, marking the first national update on postpartum movement recommendations since 2003.

Developed over a three-year period by a pan-Canadian Consensus Panel, the Guideline draws on an extensive evidence base—including input from postpartum individuals across the country, over 19,000 peer-reviewed studies, and seven systematic reviews. The result is a comprehensive, practical resource designed to inform clinical care, public health initiatives, and community-level supports nationwide.

“This new Guideline emphasizes that one size does not fit all; rather, progression towards the recommended 120 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity should be individualized, gradual, and symptom-based,” said Dr. Margie Davenport, Chair of the 2025 Canadian Guideline and professor at the University of Alberta. “It is evidence-based, but it was driven by what postpartum women wanted to know.”

Dr. Kristi Adamo, Chair of the CSEP Board of Directors, added: “At CSEP, we are proud to support these postpartum guidelines. They empower women with evidence-based physical activity, sedentary, and sleep guidance to support their physical and mental health as they navigate their journey into motherhood.”

Key recommendations include a gradual return to physical activity—specifically aiming for 120 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity exercise per week, including aerobic and strength-based movements spread over four or more days. The Guideline also promotes daily pelvic floor exercises, highlighting their importance in postpartum recovery.

The release also underscores how even small increases in activity can provide substantial health benefits. According to the Guideline, regular movement in the postpartum period can reduce the risk of postpartum depression by up to 45%, urinary incontinence by 37%, and type 2 diabetes by 28%—all without negatively impacting breastfeeding or infant development.

With an emphasis on individual needs, the Guideline encourages support from partners, families, healthcare professionals, and community organizations, reinforcing that recovery and health are collaborative journeys.

For practitioners, fitness professionals, and public health advocates, the 2025 Guideline represents a significant advancement in how postpartum care is understood and supported across Canada.

To explore the complete Guideline and access additional resources, visit CSEPguidelines.ca/guidelines/postpartum.