How I Stay Fit During Pregnancy

I know for many of you, staying fit is crucial. And staying fit during pregnancy it’s not a myth anymore. It is possible with the right nutrition and exercise (always consult your doctor before exercising).
So here, I’m gonna share my tips and experience in staying fit and healthy based on my first pregnancy and currently being pregnant (halfway there now!). I’m definitely not an expert, these are just tips that worked for me which may not work for everyone else. Just remember, every pregnancy is different, just listen to your body and enjoy this precious time! It won’t last forever!

• Exercise – I have exercised throughout my whole pregnancy the first time around and I’m doing it now too. It energises me a lot, keeps me fit and apparently helps during labour. There are plenty of antenatal classes out there, so find the one that best suits you and go ahead. As I’m quite busy with my little one, I prefer exercising at the comfort of my own home. I choose the time (usually when the little one sleeps), it’s free of charge and I can do it in my own pace. What I love at the moment is Katy Appleton Pregnancy Yoga (you can get the DVD here http://www.appleyoga.com/buy-appleyoga/buy-appleyoga/shop.html). This may seem relaxed and easy workout but it feels intense. I feel every muscle of my body working and this is what I need. I feel really great after this yoga workout and I’m so glad I found out about it. Another workout I love is Jillian Michaels’s DVDs. Obviously, I have modified them a lot so that the exercises fit to my pregnancy body but because I used to do them a lot pre-pregnancy, I just couldn’t stop now. These were the DVDs that actually helped me to tone up my body (a lot, I feel I was much fitter before I got pregnant this time than the first time around). All you need is a gym mat and weights. I aim to exercise at least three times a week, most of the time I aim for five (I get the weekends off) but honestly, sometimes I just don’t have the time and energy(for example, after getting home in the afternoon, after a whole day walking around parks, playgrounds, shops). In this case, I don’t feel guilty, because we literally walk a lot of miles, especially now the weather is so sunny and hot.

• Nutrition – I’m sure you’re all aware of the importance of healthy food, especially now when you’re creating new life. To be honest, I was struggling with that during my first weeks as I was extremely sick. I only ate whenever I could and whatever I could, which was not always healthy and nutritious. Luckily, I’m back on track now! I eat lots of salads and fruit (I aim to eat seasonal veggies and fruit, in general). I avoid all the processed fatty and sugary foods. This does not mean I do not eat these at all. I might have a craving sometimes, so I do indulge. But I feel good about myself, because I try to be good most of the time. All the information about the recipes I make and eat you can find here, on my blog.

• Water – You need to drink lots of water during pregnancy, more than you usually do. Well, I feel thirsty most of the time, so I do drink lots of it. I never go out without a bottle of water. Even at home, I always have a big bottle of water next to me so I can sip from it. I never got any swelling during my first pregnancy and I’m pretty sure it’s because of me drinking lots of water (at least one of the reasons).

• Walk – As I mentioned, I walk a lot, especially now with the little one so even if I don’t have time for my workout, I still keep active. I was told long walks are especially good for you and again, they’re supposed to help in labour. Be very careful, though, do not overwalk. If you feel tired, stop and take a break. Bottom line is, listen to your body and only do what you’re comfortable with.