In my last pregnancy, I gave up teaching exercise classes at 8 weeks pregnant due to constant exhaustion. My Body Pump classes where early morning and evening slots, at these times I really struggled to muster up energy and paint a smile on my face to motivate participants. I went on to do very little exercise, going from exercising 6 times per week to virtually nothing. Looking back, I do regret my decision to quit exercise in my first pregnancy as I gained so much unnecessary weight and cellulite over that period. It made my return to exercise post birth that bit harder. I also think it’s one of the reasons I felt so down in the early weeks of motherhood. It’s important to remember that pregnancy is not an illness and should never be used as an excuse to avoid being active daily, like I did in the past. Some women, unfortunately have medical complications which cannot be helped and end up having a rough time of it, but for most it’s a manageable time. Exercise in pregnancy has numerous benefits: · Boosts energy levels · Improves sleep quality · Reduces muscular discomfort · Reduces stress · Improves self-image and body awareness · Lowers risk of certain pregnancy related complications · Helps aid a quicker post-natal recovery · Maintains fitness · Improves circulation · Preparation for labour Although exercise is recommended in pregnancy I do feel it’s important to stay safe and listen to your own body limitations. Pregnancy is not a time to try and gain PBs (personal bests) in the gym, it’s all about maintenance, staying fit, healthy and active. I have managed to keep exercising this pregnancy, whether its long walks with my son and the dog, home workouts or a visit to the gym. I’m now starting to feel more energised again so gym sessions will be stepped up this week. My aim being 2-3 resistance sessions per week (at home or at the gym), prenatal yoga once per week and keeping up with my walking. I try to aim for around 8000 steps per day, some days I will be under that if I’m working, then other days I can rack up near 14000 steps. Pregnancy effects everyone differently. While some women fully embrace their body changing, others find it tough to deal with. I’ll hold my hands up and openly admit that I do not enjoy pregnancy. Yup I did just say that! If I could fast forward to the labour and birth phase then I absolutely would. Both my pregnancies where planned and very much wanted, however, I find myself miserable and emotional throughout. I am unable to embrace the radical body changes, deal with the constant fatigue, headaches and the uncomfortable muscular pains. I am also such a worry wart and can't wait to get her out of me and into my arms and to know all is truely well. The two things that keep me sane at the moment is the beautiful baby at the end of the journey, who I get to love more than life itself. Having to focus on optimum daily nutrition is a welcome distraction too. I aim to consume sufficient energy and nutrients to support babies growth and development. I am super over the top when it comes to pregnancy nutrition, I avoid quite a lot of food sources in the fear they could potentially affect my unborn child. I just don’t think it’s worth the risk. Some foods aren’t even listed as sources to limit or avoid when pregnant. Being a mum you just always want to do the best you can for your children. Everyone has their own opinions which they are fully entitled too, as long as that doesn’t involve shaming other mums who don’t share the same views as they do. I feel slightly guilty for not enjoying carrying my baby for 9+months. However, just because I don’t enjoy pregnancy, doesn’t make me a bad person or any less worthy of being a mum. If I was fortunate enough to be allowed a third child then I’d easily endure it all again in a heartbeat. It’s not like I’m out drinking or smoking in pregnancy, quite the opposite! Avoiding busy loud social events and following a strict healthy lifestyle throughout. I am truly blessed to be in this position, not all women get to be this lucky. Approaching 21 weeks now. Over the half way point, count down began at the positive pregnancy test for me. Sharon x
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September 2017
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