Doing some form of exercise during your pregnancy is highly recommended by medical professionals the world over. Pregnancy is a healthy state, and if your GP or cunsultant gives the all-clear to exercise, there is no reason to stop working out. You just need to adapt a few things. There are so many pregnancy yoga and pilates classes out there, and while they are great and make you feel relaxed and healthy, some women might want a bit more.
Now is not the time to try getting superfit - you want to keep up a level of fitness, not work on improving it. So no burpees or squat jumps (Yay!)
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Walking – one of the best ways to keep fit during pregnancy
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Swimming – water supports your joints and creates resistance for strength
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Aqua aerobics –inform the instructor that you’re pregnant
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Light aerobics routine – just make sure you have one foot on the floor
One of my favourite ways to keep fit during pregnancy is by doing a strength and toning routine. This can be done using dumbbells or dynabands, but you can do the following workout with just your body weight.
Make sure to keep your arms below shoulder height, don’t raise your arms above your heart, and if you start to feel dizzy, stop what you're doing and sit down.
5 minute free movement warm up - gently swinging your arms and legs
10 x Squats
10 x Lunges each leg
10 x Press Ups
10 x Tricep Dips
10 x Pelvic Bridge Lifts
30 seconds leg lift, then hold it up and pulse for 30 seconds - each leg (lying on the side, don’t go up too far)
Repeat the above exercises (in that order) 3 times. Cool down using free movement, and then do some light stretches.
Doing this sort of routine 2-3 times per week will help to keep you fit, and keep your muscles strong and toned, all ready for childbirth and looking after a new born baby. Hope you enjoy it.
