Pregnancy can be one of the most exciting and challenging times of your life. Not only are you maintaining the best possible health habits for your baby on the way, but you also want to ensure that your health is at its optimal level for your impending labor and delivery. If you are already keeping an eye on your eating habits, then you’re making a great start to your overall pregnancy health.
Now, you may be considering your exercise routine and how to sustain it throughout this time. Of course, you should always check with your doctor to be sure it’s safe for you to continue with your workouts. Once you have the go-ahead from your doctor, there are several tips to keep in mind in order to keep your daily workout routine on track.
Take a look at your current routine.
If you already have certain activities you like to do to keep fit, you can most likely continue with them in your first trimester and even into your second. Exercises like walking, swimming and light weights can typically be maintained throughout your pregnancy. You may find that as your pregnancy progresses and your center of gravity changes, exercises such as running or jogging may become too uncomfortable to continue. High impact activities should generally be avoided.
Be sure to hydrate.
Even when you aren’t pregnant, staying hydrated during your workout is essential. Now, it’s even more important to make sure you’re getting the proper amount of water. According to Women’s Health Magazine, you should try to get 10-12 glasses of water per day and possibly more depending on your routine.
Have small healthy mini-meals at the ready.
Many people think of pregnancy as a time to “eat for two.” Of course, you don’t really need to eat enough for two, full people, but you will be adding extra calories to your diet. Especially during your first trimester, eating small, healthy snacks can help stave off nausea. When you exercise, keep something on hand to prevent rapid drops in blood sugar and give you the energy to complete your workout.
Acknowledge that you may need extra rest.
Prior to becoming pregnant, you possibly had days filled with jam-packed activities. Now, you’ll have to acknowledge that you will need more rest. Your body is doing an incredible amount of work. Some days, you may not feel up to your exercise plans. Be sure to take cues from your body and rest when needed. There’s always tomorrow to pick back up with your workout routine.
Look into local classes available for expectant moms.
Your body is changing rapidly and your activities will likely change as well. Check out local classes that are designed specifically for expectant moms. Activities including yoga, pilates and stretching are healthy for your growing body and require certain modifications during pregnancy. Prenatal yoga can help you stay fit, in tune with your body, and upbeat.
Give yourself a mental break.
As much as your physical activity counts towards a healthy pregnancy, so does your mental wellness. According to Dr. Gilbert Webb’s philosophy, in order to achieve a healthy mom and baby you need “a competent, warm and supportive” provider for care. So, use this time to give yourself some mental support and consider activities like simple meditation to calm your mind.
Embrace your changing body.
Particularly if this is your first pregnancy, the changes you’re experiencing may be surprising. Understand that your level of energy and ability to complete certain activities will change as your pregnancy progresses. By your third trimester, you may be relying solely on walks and stretches to prepare for the big event.
Throughout your pregnancy, your daily workout routine is bound to change. Keep in mind that the most important aspect of maintaining your routine is to safeguard both mom’s and baby’s health.