Exercise in Pregnancy
Being pregnant finally helped me understand what my true relationship was with my body - meaning that it wasn't put on this earth to look good in a swimsuit.
Amy Adams
I have been toying with thought of taking a break from blogging however, a couple of wonderful friends have inspired me to keep going! As I have several friends that are pregnant at the moment, (remember the cold days and nights the Beast from the East brought………. mmhmm!), I was inspired to write something after reading an article in a magazine about Eva Longoria who is clearly no stranger to the struggles of desperately trying to keep fit with baby on the way!
I'm always super impressed when I see heavily pregnant women in the gym! I mean, thank God it’s not me but respect all the same! It's hard enough getting yourself to the gym when it's just the one of you, let alone having to bust a gut for two. And that's not to mention the worries of pushing yourself too hard or doing exercises that may do more harm than good. Currently six months pregnant with her first child, Eva Longoria has posted regularly on social media sharing just how hard working out is whilst with child. The star scribbled over one of her Snapchat clips; “OMG everything is so hard!”
Working with her personal trainer, Salvador Garayzar, (Yummy – and why wouldn’t you!!), she's been regularly using an exercise ball, hand weights, a bench and a medicine ball to stay fit, healthy and strong. The article went on to look at what exercises are best to do whilst pregnant which is fantastic as for anyone that's looked into this, it's a positive minefield of misinformation!
The authors of the article interviewed a well-respected exercise expert who provides some excellent advice, and if you are pregnant it's advice worth reading;
“Various studies have shown that women who exercise throughout pregnancy experience easier births, a lower risk of postnatal depression, better sleep, higher energy levels and less lower back pain. The benefits of training during pregnancy are vast - but it has to be safe.”
1. Take it Easy, (Are you listening Sam!!?!) “Nearly all of the pregnant women I train want to push themselves harder than necessary. I gently remind them that pregnancy is about ensuring you and your baby are safe; it’s not about keeping your weight down and fat off. Keep moving, sure, but make sure you do it safely.” 2. Avoid High Impact “Avoid situations that pose any risk or impact to the body – so leave that mountain bike on the wall in the garage for now.” 3. Focus on your Back and Posture “Instead, book in some time with a qualified personal trainer who can show you exercises to help improve your posture and ensure your lower back stays strong and safe throughout your pregnancy. Try brisk walks through the park or some gentle exercise on the elliptical machine. Yoga is incredible through all stages of pregnancy, and a good yoga instructor will help you really connect with your body.” 4. Listen to your body!
“Above all, listen to your body. You might be used to following a strict exercise programme, but if you’re not feeling up to it, don’t do it! Be kind to yourself, rest, move as much as you can and do as much as feels comfortable. There is plenty of time to get in shape after you have given birth. For now, focusing on staying smart and safe means you are doing everything you can to give you and your baby a beautiful birth.”
So there you go, some nice simple advice from a genuine expert in the field, happy preggy exercise!!
Introducing a new model this week, say Hi to Helen!
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