I’m Not Fat – I’m Pregnant!
Pregnant? Congratulations!
Exercising in pregnancy will improve your stamina, heart and lung health, sleep patterns, self-esteem, confidence, keep your muscles toned, keep from putting on too much weight, improve the overall health of both you and your baby and you are likely to have an easier birth and a quicker recovery!
Ten Pregnancy Exercise Tips – for the Yummiest possible Mummy!
- Firstly it is a must that you check with your GP as soon as you find out you are pregnant to get the all clear.
- Do not exercise on an empty stomach – this is even more important while you are pregnant – as this will help stop you feeling sick and tired.
- You can eat an average 300 calories extra to compensate for the exercise. (YAY! – But not quite for two!)
- Don’t aim to improve your fitness while pregnant but just maintain it – any sort of perinatal physiotherapy is more than enough exercise for now.
- It is even more important than usual to drink plenty of fluids and not get dehydrated,
- Never exercise in very hot conditions. Remember your baby is cosy in there – and will always be warmer than you. Do not let yourself get too hot.
- If you have always exercised it is ok to carry on as normal. If you do not usually exercise – check with your doctor before you embark on something new.
- After 20 weeks you should avoid exercise while lying on your back. The increased weight of your uterus presses on the major vein that returns blood from your legs to your heart.
- The hormone Relaxin stay’s in your body up to 6 months after birth, this hormone will loosen your ligaments so it is very important that you don’t over stretch.
- If in doubt – always check with your midwife or doctor.
That’s it! (Oh and don’t forget to let people pamper you….while you can!)