Easy Tips To Stay Fit During Your Pregnancy
It is natural to want to stay fit during your pregnancy. It is good for your health, and keeping active can also boost your self-esteem and energy through nine months that are hard work for your body.
Fitness in pregnancy is more than just physical
It is important to note that fitness does not only refer to the physical aspect. You also want to feel mentally, emotionally, and spiritually fit. So with that in mind, here are some simple and easy-to-do tips to stay fit during your pregnancy. Each one is a small step you can take every day, with no need for an intense routine. Doing a little often is what really helps when your body is also growing a baby.
If you were not in the habit of working out before your pregnancy, that’s completely fine. Pregnancy is not the moment to suddenly attempt a CrossFit class. Begin slowly with whichever of the tips below feel most accessible to you, and add others as your stamina builds. The key is to pause and listen to your body without causing any discomfort to yourself.
A healthy and happy mama is a healthy and happy baby. Pick the tips that fit your own week and routine.
Five easy ways to stay fit
Moderate exercise
Doing moderate exercise two or three times a week for 15 to 30 minutes will lift your mood and also help you stay healthy. Recommended options are walking, swimming, aerobic exercises, and yoga. Make sure the exercises you choose feel comfortable and do not cause any strain. Pregnancy is not the time to push past your limits.
Meditation
Exercise is a great way to keep fit, but on some days you might choose not to move much. Meditation is exercise for your mind and soul. It lets you take time out from your day and focus inwards to find some inner peace. You can meditate anywhere, any time, for as long as feels right. Chant, listen to soothing music, or sit in silence. All three ways work equally well.
Healthy meals
With so much focus on eating a healthy diet, it is easy to forget that we do not need to choose between healthy and delicious meals. Get the right mix of vitamins, calcium, iron, and zinc, and aim for six small meals a day so you stay full without overeating. Swap processed sweets for nut butter or fruit when cravings hit. Those cravings are often your body’s way of telling you it needs something.
Stay hydrated
It is important to drink enough water to keep yourself healthy and fit. Staying hydrated will keep your energy high and help your body function well. Aim to drink around 2 litres of water every day. Keep a bottle of water near you where you can see it, so you take a sip each time you spot it. Drinking enough water also keeps your skin looking dewy and helps you feel good.
Listen to your body
The most important part of staying fit during your pregnancy is to listen to your body. You know your own needs best, and listening to your body will help you make the right fitness choices. This is how you keep a balance between your physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. You do not need to follow someone else’s rules.
Try a prenatal yoga class
Group prenatal yoga classes combine gentle movement, deep breathing, and the company of other mums in your trimester. Our Orchard studio runs classes on alternate Saturdays, with a maximum of eight mums per class. It is a calming hour that covers both “moderate exercise” and “meditation” in one go. Beginners are welcome.
Since ancient times, chanting “Om” has been said to have healing properties. The vibration is considered healing for both your body and mind.
Talk to your doctor first
Be sure to check with your doctor or gynaecologist if you would like to incorporate these routines into your lifestyle. Every pregnancy is unique, your obstetrician knows your medical history, any complications you’ve had, and what feels safe given your stage. They’ll also flag any contraindications for specific exercises (high-impact movement, deep twists, certain inversions) that might apply to your individual case.
Remember: the most important thing is that you feel healthy and happy. Pick and choose the tips from this list that fit into your routine. Stay healthy and stay fit, beautiful mamas.