You might worry that staying active after birth could cause problems like leaking or worsen your abdominal separation. Research suggests the opposite is actually true: moderate physical activity generally isn't linked to urinary incontinence, though some high-impact activities like running may cause leaking during exercise—which is common and treatable. Exercise won't make diastasis recti worse. In fact, staying active supports your overall recovery and sets you up for faster healing. If you were active before pregnancy—whether that's regular weightlifting, running, or brisk walking—research suggests continuing at a similar level is generally safe, though you'll need to modify as your body changes. The most important thing? Listen to your body, talk with your doctor about what feels right for you, and consider working with a pelvic floor specialist to make sure you're moving in ways that support your recovery.