iamachristianjesusfreak's Journal, 28 October 2013

I found a pregnancy yoga DVD, having never done yoga before, and OH MY WORD it was amazing. Nice and slow, and relaxing, but by the end my heart rate was up, and it improved my flexibility and core strength oodles. Also, there are so many poses that help relieve the pressure and pains of being pregnant. 

I found some wonderful workouts on YouTube. I loved doing pilates and some strength training, pliate squatd are great, most things are acceptable during pregnancy though you will have to do modified positions for some. When I was feeling really uncomfortable the exercise really helped me feel better. Talk to your doctor, but I know some people continue running during pregnancy, bit only if they were serious about it before pregnancy. You don't want to push yourself too hard, and keep your heart rate at a good level, I can't remember exactly what was recomended, but talking to your doctor about it is a good idea.  

I was told whatever you are used to doing is safe, just maybe take it down a level. If you haven't done it before, don't do it now. I used to run all the time, but have found it too difficult with the shortness of breath and the extra weight, so I have modified by doing fast walking on an incline, spinning is great & swimming too, weights are OK but I wouldn't do anything crazy-just light strength training. Yoga is really good for opening your hips and strengthening your pelvic wall-squats are really good too! 

I tend to google things and then take the general consensus, because everything you read will say something different. I definitely trust the doctor first and foremost. From what I have read / how I feel personally - general rule is that if you were doing it before you got pregnant you can continue doing so with a few exceptions. Most suggest NOT heavy lifting though I have seen people swear its ok. Running and cycling they say is good until you start to become disproportionate and have an increased risk of falling over/losing balance. You don't want to, say, start training for a marathon when you weren't a runner before, if that isn't obvious lol. And if something doesn't feel right for any reason, better to be safe than sorry. I think everyone is different on what they can handle and since you're fit already, I would probably take it slow and see what you can handle. Just make sure to keep very hydrated and cool - dehydration and getting overheated is not good for the baby but it'll happen more easily now.  

It depends on the person and your current fitness levels. If you don't currently exercise, then walking might be good. If you were a runner and worked out before, then many women can keep doing it. It's best to consult your doctor to be sure. But walking is always good. Yoga might be great. 

Keep moving! It's good for you and good for the baby. You might have to run to the bathroom a few extra times though! 

I've never been pregnant... but Jillian Michaels has an article on the subject. :) http://tinyurl.com/p87547c 

Thanks for the article. I think it is great advice and I appreciate you finding it. :) 

I think just listen to your body. I was in the army when I was pregnant with both kids, and with my daughter I was able to keep running up until the last month.