28 Weeks Along with My Prince
Hey Mama-to-be!
I’m on Week 28 – Day 2 of my pregnancy, and I wanted to
share with you my thoughts on exercising while pregnant. Since I found out I was pregnant, which was
at the end of March, I’ve maintained a consistent exercise routine. I get an hour workout in about 4 times a
week. Also, I walk for at least 30 minutes
a day, when I don’t use a fitness DVD at home or attend the gym.
Exercise during pregnancy can keep weight gain in check, shrink
your risk of gestational diabetes, decrease discomfort, and set you up for an
easier labor and delivery. Breaking a
sweat, especially after 29 weeks, has a big benefit for your baby, too.
During your 3rd Trimester, it’s time to get ready! You’ll want to boost your endurance and
stamina, and relieve stress to prepare for delivery. Mamas who exercise in their third trimesters tend
to give birth to babies with less body fat.
Prenatal exercise may decrease the amount of glucose and fats mothers
make accessible to their babies, helping them grow more optimally.
Even if you weren't active earlier in your pregnancy, it's
never too late to start moving. The third trimester is when most of your baby's
fat tissues develop, so that's when exercise may have the largest payoff in
terms of your baby's body fat.
Don't fear -- You don't need to be a marathon runner to earn
the rewards. I recommend doing 30
minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity. Even brisk walking most days of the week
throughout your pregnancy is very beneficial to you and the baby.
Ways to Get Moving:
1. Every hour, make sure you stand up and walk for 15
minutes.
2. Create a walking loop at your workplace so you can always
take a quick walk regardless of the weather.
3. Check out some prenatal exercise DVDs from Autumn
Calabrese (Beachbody).
4. Dance while you do household tasks.
5. If you have other kids, take them to the park and play
with them.
Getting yourself to the gym may take an extra dose of motivation,
but the payoff is huge. Consistent
exercise during pregnancy can minimize aches and constipation, help you sleep
better, and lower your risk of depression.
You may even end up having a shorter, less complicated labor.
If your favorite classes don't come in the prenatal variety,
it's fine to keep going, as long as you pay attention to how your body
feels. Be sure to limit your intensity
and stay within the normal range of motion.
Also, make sure the instructor knows that you're pregnant and is
knowledgeable about modifications you can make.
My wish is for all of the mamas-to-be to stay active and healthy
in order to have the best 40 week journey possible. Blessings and love to you all!
~ J. Lynn
