FEAR OF LOSING THE PHYSIQUE YOURE ACCUSTOMED TO IS COMMON AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN.

Although your body does go through significant changes, following a well-designed fitness plan during and after pregnancy can help you avoid unwanted weight gain and stay comfortable in your body.

1. ESTABLISH A PREGNANCY WORKOUT ROUTINE

You dont have to be afraid to work out while youre pregnant. In fact, remaining active has many benefits for both you and your baby.

Talk to your doctor and work with a trainer to establish a safe exercise routine that includes a combination of strength training and aerobics. Youll feel fitter and healthier throughout your pregnancy, and maintaining that fitness level will make it easier to regain your pre-pregnancy figure after giving birth.

2. FOCUS ON A GOAL

After your baby is born, your doctor will tell you when its safe to return to your exercise routine. Use this advice to create a timeline for your postpartum fitness plan.

Choose an end goal to work toward, whether its something big like running a race or a simple ambition such as being able to lift a certain amount of weight. Remember that it takes time to regain strength and shed fat, so dont beat yourself up if youre not perfect right away.

3. MAKE TIME FOR PROPER NUTRITION

The hectic schedule of a new mom can make cooking healthy meals nearly impossible.

Plan ahead by making large batches of soups, stews, chili and casseroles while youre pregnant and freezing them in individual portions. Eating this kind of food at the end of a busy day helps speed recovery and gives you more energy to stick with your fitness plan.

4. BE FLEXIBLE

Change is an inevitable part of life with a new baby. Chances are that you wont be able to work out as often as youd like at first, and thats okay.

Make consistency a goal, not a necessity, until you get used to your new schedule. If you cant make it to the gym, invest in some weights, a balance ball and resistance bands so that you can work out at home.Find mommy and me fitness classes nearby that mix exercise with bonding time, and enjoy a new experience as you work out with your baby.

5. TAKE IT SLOW

Hormonal changes during pregnancy cause soft tissues to loosen up, and the effects last after you give birth. Jumping right into high-impact exercise increases your risk of injury by putting stress on the tendons and ligaments that support your muscles and bones.

Aggressive abdominal exercises can also be a problem if you developed a gap in your abdominal muscles while you were pregnant. Pushing your body before its ready sets back your recovery and makes it harder to maintain a consistent routine.

A slow and steady fitness regimen is the safest way to get your pre-pregnancy figure back without risking injury. Keep your eye on your goals and stick with it, and youll find yourself making consistent progress in the months after giving birth.

For even more tips please say hi to me on Instagram @VannaBelt. I’m here to support you on your health and fitness journey!