As a personal trainer and a Mum, I’m often asked for advice when it comes to pre and
postnatal fitness. Exercising whilst pregnant often sparks debate and many pregnant women are unsure of the do’s and don’ts. Nearly two thirds (60%) of the women surveyed said that they simply didn’t feel well informed about how to improve prenatal health and nearly half of women (47%) wrongly thought that running is risky during pregnancy.

So my advice is always this … Staying active during your pregnancy is good for you and your baby, and you can continue to exercise in the way that you normally do. For example, if you are a regular runner then it is totally fine to continue running, you may need to adjust your pace and your distance depending on how you feel throughout your pregnancy. However, I also add that this is not the time to start training in a new way. If you weren’t very active before your pregnancy, then I would suggest that you aim for lots of walking and antenatal yoga.

Studies show that exercising during pregnancy has health benefits for both mother and baby. It can help your baby’s heart and brain to develop as well as helping to boost your energy levels and reduce feelings of depression. When I was pregnant, none of my friends had babies, I found that going to antenatal fitness classes was a great way to meet other mums to be. Personally, for me, exercising wasn’t about training for aesthetic goals or because I felt any pressure to ‘stay in shape’, I really enjoy exercising, it’s a part of my life and it makes me feel more energised. Moving and breathing is just as good for your mind as it is for your body.

I wish that Aptaclub was available for me when I was pregnant. It’s great because it gives you all the info and the stats from qualified fitness professionals and doctors. Their latest
campaign Active For 2, has been created to help educate pregnant women about the benefits of exercise and to show them how to stay active safely during their pregnancy.
If and when I am pregnant again, I will definitely do my best to stay active. I feel really
passionately about sharing this information because I know that pregnancy can be so
daunting, especially the first time. Often women are made to feel guilty about their choices both in pregnancy and in motherhood. All of us mums are of course trying to do our best. The bottom line is, keep on moving Mamas!

For more information about the ‘Active For 2’ campaign, visit the Aptaclub website
https://www.aptaclub.co.uk

Advertorial brought to you in association with Aptaclub.