Staying fit during pregnancy is a wonderful thing. It not only continues to strengthen and tone your muscles, but I have found it helps to lose the weight after the baby is born.  It also makes you feel better emotionally and mentally because physically, our bodies are changing and going through so much that it can be discouraging. What better way to overcome that feeling than a great sweat?!

Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine, even if you have been working out for years.  Make sure you have no pregnancy related complications that would take specific consideration to your training routine. 

You can normally do all the exercises you were doing before pregnancy just with less intensity. A good rule of thumb is to focus on staying “healthy” and not so much endurance, strength, and intensity.  Of course, low impact exercises like walking, and riding a bike are fine. When it may cause a bit of an issue is when you get later on in the pregnancy when your balance may be off a little.

Avoid any high impact activities, any exercises that require you to lie on your back for long periods. The reason for this is there is major vein near the spine that helps move blood to your heart. Lying on your back for a long period of time may constrict this vein thus decreasing oxygen flow and nutrients to the baby.

There are also a lot of prenatal classes such as yoga, pilates, aerobics, and swimming, that are a great way to strengthen your body and get your body ready for baby.   

Being on my 4th pregnancy, the best piece of advice I can give is LISTEN TO YOUR BODY (and baby). You know your body best, and if it just doesn’t feel right or you have any sort of discomfort, stop doing it. DO NOT OVER EXERT yourself. Each pregnancy is different so just because it worked the first time, it doesn’t mean it will work this time.

Take care of you first, it will make for a healthy pregnancy, and of course a healthier baby. When the precious bundle of joy gets here, take the time to heal and rest and slowly get back into your postnatal exercise. 

Enjoy this time, you have created life, it’s the best time of your life!

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