Fit Villains: Selfish, Shameless, Sassy, Fitness.

Hey there,

Provided you feel fine, have no complications and have been cleared by your doctor, there’s very little reason you shouldn’t workout while pregnant. Take extra precaution and modify moves to suit your body: your lower back, lower body joints and core need to be supported and protected (using a pillow, modifying posture, etc). You do have to adjust your intensity: it’s not the time to train for a marathon or try to set personal bests!

The elliptical is specifically a good idea for pregnant women, as it takes a lot of pressure off your lower joints. Treadmills may put too much pressure on your lower half: a walk is fine, but a run may be too much. Spinning is a great option too: just make sure to stop if you feel discomfort, especially in your lower back, and adjust your intensity to what YOU find comfortable. It’s ALWAYS okay to stop, even mid-class. Trust me, the instructors won’t mind!

Pain, fatigue, spotting, heart palpitations, cramping, dizziness and general malaise are things you need to pay attention to and heed. Stop if you feel any symptoms and check with your doctor if they persist for longer than they should. Do not pressure yourself to workout intensely or to keep up with a schedule: listen to your body above ALL else and if you just feel like moving (as opposed to a class), a walk is almost always fine. Your needs and capabilities will also change as the pregnancy progresses, so check with your doctor at each checkup to make sure you’re still in the clear.

It may be beneficial to find classes specifically designed for pre-natal bodies (with instructors who are certified in pre-natal fitness). These days, classes in almost every genre can be tailored for pregnant and growing bodies. Take a look in your area to see what’s being offered. Bonus: it also helps to meet other ‘fitties’ in the same pregger boat and many moms-to-be go on to enjoy post-natal classes together as well.

While exercising to stay active & fit can be VERY beneficial to pregnant women, some women can become obsessed with using exercise & extreme dieting to limit their weight gain during pregnancy (pregorexia). Make sure your goals are health related & not too fixated on limiting your weight gain or losing pregnancy pounds faster: it can be dangerous to both mom and baby. (Click the link above for warning signs, symptoms & treatment).

If you need it, a FABULOUS resource for expectant moms is Fit Pregnancy. You’ll find support, info & workouts designed specifically for expecting moms pre & post natal. http://www.fitpregnancy.com

Hope this helps! Congrats!

xo