Most women are unsure if they can or should exercise during pregnancy and after the birth. It's natural to be unsure, you have a million and one new things on your mind. It's important that you don't let your own health and wellbeing slip down the priority list.
As a mum of two young boys, it was keeping fit and healthy that made both my pregnancy experiences that little bit easier, and more enjoyable. It also inspired me to become a health and fitness instructor.
Pre Natal Fitness
Now that you are pregnant, are you afraid to start or keep exercising? If so you are not alone, many women are unsure what is a safe form of exercise when pregnant. That is where I come in.
If you haven't been a regular exerciser before getting pregnant, then now is not the time to start training for a marathon, but the real hazard is inactivity. It contributes to excess weight gain, high blood pressure, aches and pains and a higher risk for Cesarean section and gestational diabetes.
By creating plans specifically adapted to you, whatever your pregnancy stage, I can help.
Post Natal Fitness
Congratulations on your new arrival, how are you feeling? Exhausted, in a daze, not sure who you are anymore? You are not alone! All new mums experience a huge roller coaster of emotions in the first few weeks and months, sometimes just getting dressed can be a challenge, so exercise is normally not high on your priority list.
However exercising after you have had your baby can improve your physical and mental wellbeing. It can:
- Help restore muscle strength and firm up your body
- Make you less tired because it raises your energy level and improves your sense of wellbeing
- Promote weight loss
- Improve your cardiovascular fitness and restore muscle strength
- Condition your abdominal muscles
- Improve your mood, relieve stress and help prevent post natal depression.
Once you have been cleared by your doctor to exercise (normally at the 6-8 week check), then we can work together to design a programme that suits you and your lifestyle.