Keep fit during pregnancy

Congratulations! If you’ve found this blog, I’m going to assume you’re expecting a baby! Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be challenging. As a newborn and maternity photographer, I have seen many mums to be worrying about all of the ups and downs of pregnancy. However, one way to stay physically and mentally healthy during pregnancy is through exercise. 

Exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, and improve mood and sleep. We’re really lucky here in the Bromley borough that we have some excellent classes and activities for pregnant women. 

The lovely Lucy of Lucy Marner Fitness has put these four videos together for you all so you can see the correct way to do each of her four recommended exercises. Lucy is a pre and post-natal specialist, you can find out more about her private 1-1 personal training sessions to guide you through your pregnancy safely and beyond in the following places;

Instagram - Lucy Marner Fitness
Lucy's website

Exercise One - Elevated Clam

Exercise Two - Bird Dog

Exercise Three - Bridge Lifts

Exercise Four - Push ups with Shoulder Taps

Here are some classes and other types of exercises that you might want to try out for keeping fit during pregnancy:

Walking

Don’t underestimate walking! Walking is a low-impact exercise that is safe for most pregnant women. It's a great way to get some fresh air, increase blood flow, and maintain cardiovascular health. I find the best places for a nice easy walk are Footscray Meadows, Lullingstone Country Park and for a little bit of a mid impact High Elms.

Prenatal yoga

This is a popular exercise for pregnant women. It can help improve flexibility, reduce stress, and alleviate back pain. Prenatal yoga classes are tailored to suit the needs of pregnant women, so you may find them much less strenuous than regular yoga classes. In the Bromley borough we have several pre-natal yoga classes and my clients often rate the following:

elizabethnadine.com

littleyogawarriors.co.uk

Swimming during pregnancy

Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can help alleviate joint pain and swelling. It's also a great way to cool down during the summer months.

Pilates

Pilates is a great exercise for pregnant women - it’s a low-impact exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles. It can help alleviate back pain and improve posture, both of which are common concerns during pregnancy. There are some dedicated pilates for pregnancy classes in Bromley if you’d like to check them out.

 

Dancing

Dancing might not be the first exercise that springs to mind when you’re pregnant, but it’s a fun way to stay active during pregnancy. It can help improve cardiovascular health and boost mood. 

It's important to note that every pregnancy is different, and not all exercises are suitable for all women. Pregnant women should always consult with their midwife or healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program. You’ll find in most cases, you’ll be supported to stay active during pregnancy.  

I help women to capture the memories of their pregnancy in beautiful portraiture. If you’d like to find out more, please feel free to take a look at my website. All my maternity sessions are very relaxed, and laid back capturing this special time before it flies by in the blink of an eye.