You’re expecting…time to put your feet up and relax, right? Not so fast, sister! We know it’s hard to exercise when you feel slow as a sloth and bloated as a whale and tired, oh so tired…but we’ve got some ideas for you that might motivate you to get moving. (Exercising while pregnant can even give you more energy!)
Remember, you’re eating, sleeping, and working out for two now…so it’s important to practice safe pregnancy workouts. Check with your doctor before you workout to make sure the exercises you plan to do are safe for you. Once you get the green light, think about trying one of the following:
1. Walking
Walking is a great way to just get moving! It’s an ideal cardio workout because it doesn’t require too much impact on your joints. You can easily fit walking into your schedule (no gym membership required!) and it’s an exercise you can continue all the way up to your delivery date. Running and biking may also be cardio options for you!
2. Swimming
Swimming gives you extra range of motion without putting pressure on your joints. It’s a full-body exercise that strengthens your heart by getting it pumping a little extra, and it can also help relieve nausea and swelling. And let’s be real, it’s nice to feel weightless, even if it’s just for a moment.
3. Dance Classes
Low-impact dance workout classes like Zumba (or if you’re feelin’ real fancy, belly dancing….) are a great way to increase your heart rate, work on mobility, and get the endorphins flowing! This is a good choice even if you don’t consider yourself a dancer! Take that dance class, girl. You are a beautiful gazelle.
4. Pilates
Pilates movements focus mainly on building stamina, strengthening your core, improving your posture, lengthening your muscles, and preventing backaches; all of which come in handy during labor! Be prepared to work on the pelvic floor, abdominals, and bum.
5. Yoga
Prenatal Yoga is another great exercise to practice while pregnant. Not only is it great for your body, it also encourages flexibility, relaxation, and deep breathing techniques that can help you immensely during labor. It’s also good stress relief for when those hormones take over! A lot of prenatal studios will offer props such as blankets or cushions to support you and keep you comfy, which is pretty great.
Exercise is hard work, and so is growing a lil’ bean in your body. But working out throughout your pregnancy will keep you feeling physically healthy and mentally healthy. And, it will prepare you for the hardest workout of your life – labor!
