Training and staying fit while pregnant

You would never go into a marathon, sporting competition, or long distance bike ride without preparing right? At least I would hope not. So if you haven’t heard or realized labor and delivery is an endurance event in itself. 

Having a fit and healthy pregnancy has very little to do with getting, or maintaining your figure, and everything to do with strengthening endurance and key muscles used during labor.  

I really push to my clients and request of individuals who become pregnant while training to continue your routine. Come 3rd trimester we switch it up a bit leaving behind jumping exercises and moves that involve pulling in abdominal area, particularly lower abdominal.  

Training during 1st trimester we want to keep in mind: Do what your body can do and no more- the goal is to be able to move. Don’t try to power through a routine/circuit, now is the time to get and stay tuned to your body. 

 Keep water and nutrition on point-  again 1 gallon of water is always our goal. That is not going to change. Keep hydrated and especially if we’re active. On top of that we have to feed our body with great energy sources. While pregnant, your blood sugar levels are all over the place causing dizziness and nausea. Which causes your odd cravings at times. Let’s not fuel that with bad eating habits which will drain your energy even more! 

Kegal exercsies- idea is to strengthen pelvic floor which can help during vaginal delivery and also to prevent urinary incontinence during and after birth. Hint- active muscles used to stop the flow of urine.  

My experience- 14 individuals became pregnant and trained all through their pregnancy in the last 18 months. 4 trained the day of delivery with no difficulties during labor. All right back into routine 3 weeks after giving birth. Keep in mind all these individuals were active before becoming pregnant and continued to stay active throughout, which allowed for smooth labor, and quick healthy recovery. 

For more information or to submit questions please email pricelessdirections@gmail.com