I work with so many moms being a maternity photographer, and I always ask how they are feeling, physically, emotionally, and mentally. As a mom of three, I have been where you are. I worked out during all my pregnancies, and even though they were all different, staying active always made me feel better and ultimately helped me recover fast post-partum.
The number one thing you should understand is that working out during pregnancy doesn’t mean pushing yourself or having the expectations of a certain body. It’s about supporting your mental health as well as your changing body. Prenatal exercise helps with so many things such as body aches and pains, energy, and prepares your body for labor as well as recovery. It’s about taking care of your body, not hurting it.
I did many different exercises while pregnant. Some of my favorites were walking, prenatal yoga, and light strength training. Walking is so good for you, and you can do it almost anywhere. We also have so many easy hiking paths in the Rogue Valley that are safe to do. Prenatal yoga is so good to help with flexibility, breathing, and allowing yourself to slow down.
Strength training can be so beneficial as long as it is done safely. This is the exercise I did every day of my pregnancy. Light weights or even body weight exercises help support your growing belly by strengthening your core, hips, and back. I made sure to do a lot that strengthened my hips due to arthritis from an old injury. I did a lot of squats, modified lunges, and used resistance bands. It is very important to use good form, lighter weights, and always listen to your body. Pregnancy is not a time to push through discomfort.
Core work is very important during pregnancy but it’s even more important to do it safely. The type of core work you can do would be breathing based exercises, pelvic tilts, and modified core work. These types of exercises are much more beneficial than your typical crunches. A strong core makes a huge difference in labor and post-partum recovery.
Something I want to make very clear is that you should never compare yourself to anyone else or to your pre-pregnancy self. Your body is changing and creating a human life. It is very important to remember that working out during pregnancy is not for looks, it is to keep your body and mind healthy. If it doesn’t feel good, then you shouldn’t be doing it. Some days you may do a whole workout and some days you might just be stretching on your living room floor. Both are perfect!
Exercising during pregnancy was something I never regretted. It helped me through my pregnancy by feeling energized, accomplished, and it gave me so much confidence, which are all things that show through in photos. When you feel good about yourself, it shows in everything you do, especially in how you carry yourself.
If you are pregnant and wanting to exercise it’s never too late! Always check with your doctor before you start and find movements that are safe for you. Prenatal exercise is about moving and caring for yourself during this beautiful journey you’re on. Trust me, you will thank yourself.
If you have thought about documenting this beautiful journey you are on, don’t hesitate to reach out. I would love to chat!