Stay fit during pregnancy

You will thank yourself during labour.

Giving birth is like running a marathon, so you will need all the strength you have and then some superpowers.

The more active and fit you are during pregnancy, the easier it will be for you to adapt to your changing shape and weight gain. You will feel much better during your pregnancy (and after) if you keep moving as long as you can. It is very important that you stay safe and don't overdo it, so stick with swimming and walking if you are in doubt. As a rule of thumb, you should be able to hold a conversation as you exercise when pregnant. If you become breathless as you talk, then you're probably exercising too hard. Remember to stay hydrated during your workout and take breaks or stop if you feel dizzy or unwell.

Avoid lying flat on your back, particularly after 16 weeks, as the weight of your bump presses on the main blood vessel bringing blood back to your heart and this can make you feel faint.

If you are not usually working out and want to get in shape as you discover you are pregnant, it is best to take it very gently and seek advise from a pregnancy trainer or talk to your GP.

Examples of easy exercises you can still do while pregnant:

The Pregnancy TrainerNatalie Ferris is a London-based personal trainer, who specialize in training women during pregnancy and after giving birth. She knows the importance of breathing techniques and pelvic floor strength, all of the things that will get you ready fro the birth, and recover after birth. Read more about her methods here. Natalie also offers online consultations.