There are so many ways that us mamas-to-be fall into a routine of life that involves everyone else, and not ourselves or the person we’re carrying inside. With nary a moment for a leg lift or meal preps, sometimes we need to carve those moments, schedule them, if you will, to make them happen. So how can you avoid pitfalls and keep on track this pregnancy?
1. Schedule the time:
It’s hard enough to have the time to do anything extra in our days. Whether it’s work, kids, errands- there is no time for extra. But what we sometimes forget is that our body, our sanity… those are not extras in Life. Those are Necessities. Taking the same time to care for ourselves as we do meeting deadlines and planning playdates, is key to staying healthy and happy during pregnancy and beyond. My favorite tip to getting things done that I “don’t have time for”, is to schedule them.Remember that 10 minutes three times a day is a 30 minute workout. You can’t create more time, but you can schedule what you’ve got to be as productive as you imagine! No penciling yourself in, grab that pen and mark your workouts on your schedule!
2. Do what you want:
Yep, you read that right. Try out a yoga class, Zumba, jogging, a walk, hikes, DVDs, group classes, swimming… there are so many options out there and many can be tailored to pregnancy. Make how you stay in shape your choice. For me, I love yoga, running and swimming laps- especially later in pregnancy. I use DVDs for yoga so that Addie and I can do workouts together and I can get them in while she naps, but I enjoy taking classes when I can- and classes are a great way to meet other mamas and mamas-to-be!
3. Stay comfortable:
This is SO important for me. I love jogging with my babe on board, but when I have to start pulling at my shirts, and the elastic itches on my shorts- I totally lose interest. That’s why my favorite workout gear is For Two Fitness. I first saw pregnant mamas at local races wearing the cute racerback tanks and did some research for myself. After checking out their selection of all things workout, I knew I had to try a few pieces. The tanks are perfect for my workouts (and really to wear anywhere) and the pants are made for movement- both pre and postnatal- I plan on wearing them during those first few recovery weeks, for sure. No matter what you’re doing, being dressed for it makes the whole process better! While you sweat, don’t fret about your comfort or let your style fizzle- check out #ForTwoFitness for yourself, or as the perfect gift.
Shoes are also extremely important- especially while pregnant. Joints are looser and feet can swell, so make sure you have good kicks! For me, this meant letting go of my old standbys. After over 1,000 miles (NEVER let your shoes go this long… it’s terrible for you), I traded them in for a new pair I’ve had for over a year, but didn’t want to break out too soon. My best advice? Go to your local running store and get fitted for the right shoe! They can help evaluate your stride and activity level so you find the perfect shoe for you!
4. Know what your cravings really mean:
Many times I’ve found myself craving sugar or salt. While I’d love to grab some candy or pretzels, I know these snacks will just leave me dehydrated and guilty. Check out my handy chart to know what your body is really asking you for… and remember that sometimes all you want is chocolate- and that’s what you really need!
5. Be in touch with you:
Whether you’re tired or think you can push further, you’re right! It’s important, especially while pregnant to listen to your body and know what you’re capable of. Before your workout, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Are you ready for a few miles? Would you rather just one good mile? Maybe just getting in the pool is enough, or taking a walk with the kids is enough of a workout for the day. Keeping yourself motivated can only happen if your health is truly benefiting- rest days included.
Take care of you and that little one (or little ones) that you have on the way! I look forward to the days when my girls and I can run together. Til then, I’ll keep running for two!
What do you do to have a #fitpregnancy?
I think you are amazing to be honest. Both times when I was pregnant, I took that as a reason to kick back & relax for 9 months and did absolutely nothing. I wish I had worked out or done yoga while I was pregnant.
Thanks, Robin!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
I was too lazy and tired during pregnancy to do anything. It’s important to be active! Wish I would have follow blogs that motivate.
myrah – Coupon Mamacita recently posted…**FREE** PhillySwirl Swirl Stix at Dollar Tree!
The first trimester had me too tired to move, too!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
I loved staying active while pregnant. I ended up on bed rest my 3rd trimester but I loved seeing all my friends stay active until the end.
Mary recently posted…Book Review: 102 Ways to Save Money For and at Walt Disney World
I fear bed rest! How awesome that you still supported all the mamas that were active- that’s really great of you!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
I wish I had read this when I was pregnant. I always thought you had to take it easy and not to do much exercise. I love how you broke down what the cravings mean.
It’s crazy how recommendations change over the years! We all do the best we can with the info we have- that’s for sure!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Oh that chart to know what you are craving really means is brilliant! I need to keep that pinned up in my kitchen! And I’m not even pregnant; just have those cravings all the time!
Amber Edwards recently posted…4th of July Recipes to complete your Independence Day celebration!
I hear that!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
These are great tips. I agree that shoes are always important, but most especially when you’re expecting and feet are intermittently swelling and what have you.
Yes! Exactly!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
What a neat chart! I snack often without really thinking about what my body really needs.
Elizabeth @ Being MVP recently posted…{Almost} Wordless Wednesday: Pretend City Fun
We try to not buy things that we veer to (like salty pretzels), but it’s good to know when I want them what my body is really asking for.
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Great tips for pregnant and not pregnant people
Patty recently posted…The Cook’s Temptation by Joyce Wayne – Book Blast
Yes!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Great tips. I need to think when I’m craving something next time to see what my body really needs!
Debra recently posted…Kid Lit: Another “Good Question!”
I keep the chart in my kitchen!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Understanding your cravings is really important.These are great tips for everyone.
Ellen Christian recently posted…Zoya Bubbly Swatches and Review
So true!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Having been on bedrest, i didn’t get to excercise while pregnant. You look like you are doing a FABULOUS job!
Wendy recently posted…Soaring to the New England Air Museum
Thank you, Wendy! I’m sorry you were on bed rest, but hope your pregnancy went well otherwise!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
thanks for these tps! I will need them!
Amanda A recently posted…Why every couple who plans to get pregnant within the next year should start taking FertaMax
Good luck!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
What a great post. I love the table explaining what cravings mean. Also, tip #1 is the best. You MUST schedule time in order to get fit. Otherwise the day to day things in life just eat up all your time.
Jennifer recently posted…RSVP for the #ShareItForward Twitter Party
Life really does take up a lot of time! 😉
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
These are some great tips, when I was pregnant unfortunately I did not get off of the couch much and my body showed it.
susan recently posted…Everyone’s favorite traveling bear, Paddington coming to the big screen this Christmas, check out the trailer. #PaddingtonMovie
Chasing a toddler definitely helps me!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
I love your What Does It Mean? list. I have copied it down and will stick it to the front of my fridge. And, I know what you mean about proper fitting shoes. Over used shoes or ill fitting shoes can really do a (bad) number on your whole body. Love you post.
Katy Rawson recently posted…7 Ways to Improve Your Health
I keep the chart on my fridge, too! And shoes- SO important in all aspects of life, for sure!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
I was doing so well with my pregnancy and then half-way, the doc told me to stop, it was too stressful on my babies {twin mom}, it was hard to take it slowly when I wanted to do more!
Tammi @ My Organized Chaos recently posted…Grilled Corn on the Cob
Oh man! I always tell my doctor she ruins all the fun (I get told no a lot, too). I hope you were able to get back to it after! <3
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
I just started trying zumba! It’s so fun!
Janel recently posted…Staying Healthy Through Summer #HealthyEssentials Giveaway
That’s awesome! I love Zumba, even though I look like an idiot in class!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
These are awesome tips to stay fit for two! I agree, exercise is SO important! I find that even when I’m too tired to exercise, when I do exercise, I receive the energy that I need!
Meagan recently posted…Staying Healthy Through Summer #HealthyEssentials Giveaway
So true for me, too. When I feel a bit tired, I know I need a little workout to feel better!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
These are all great tips! I especially agree with being comfortable! Nothing is quite as annoying as fighting with your clothes while you work out.
Seriously!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Good for you for staying active while pregnant! I did not find my love for staying fit and working out until after my first was born.
Jenn recently posted…adidas Summer Sale: Now Up to 50% Off
I’m glad you did- no matter when!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Great tips Chelley!! Cute workout gear too! You look so great!
Thanks, Shell!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Okay, that I think I want list is just awesome… I had no clue and though I am not pregnant, I would assume it would be the same? thanks for sharing…
Staying fit is important- no matter what stage of life!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
It’s funny how the cravings vary with each pregnancy, with all 5 of mine they were all different.
Mama to 5 BLessings recently posted…Ready Set Go With The New Motorworks Wooden Toy Vehicles & Giveaway
Just my 2 have been so different, too!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
if i have something on a schedule i am more apt to stick to it than not. great tips.
Yes, me too! I even use pen to be sure it stays on the calendar!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
I love the list of what cravings mean. I just finished a bag of popcorn and wish I would have had your list! I’ve got it now and am going to keep it handy!!! 🙂 Great tips! 🙂
Nancy Lustri (StyleDecor) recently posted…Fourth of July Fashion Inspiration!
Sometimes a bag of popcorn is what you need 🙂
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
You’re soo right when you say success starts with comfort! It’s so hard to work out when you aren’t comfy.
Sarah @ Must Have Mom recently posted…Rolo S’mores Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe: Perfect For Around The Bonfire!
That’s so important- pregnant or not.
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
It’s been a long time since I was pregnant. It’s great you’re doing what you can do stay fit.
Jenn @ The Rebel Chick recently posted…Cool Off With These 15 Refreshing Summer Drinks Recipes
I’m trying- that’s for sure!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
These are great tips. Knowing what your cravings mean is key to sticking to any diet.
Indeed!
martinkadelux recently posted…5 Tips to Stay Healthy and #FitForTwo
Such great tips. I really need to take advantage of these! Thanks.
Mistee Dawn recently posted…RoboCop – Movie Review. #RoboCop
Good luck!
martinkadelux recently posted…Reliving those moments…
Great tips! Yoga is always my go to. I love it!
Krista recently posted…Free Special Offers from Disney!
Yes!!!
martinkadelux recently posted…Reliving those moments…
I tried to run but near the end just couldn’t anymore. I think diet is also very important while pregnant. Wished I had known more with my first two babies as I did with my third.
kristin recently posted…Taking the Headache out of The Nanny Tax
I cannot imagine how hard running towards at the end will be… I may downgrade to a walk!
martinkadelux recently posted…Reliving those moments…
I totally agree with you about being fit at a running store where they have some expertise.
Liz Mays recently posted…Happy Birthday, Paddington Bear! #PaddingtonMovie
YES!
martinkadelux recently posted…Reliving those moments…
I did not have a fit pregnancy but I wish I knew half as much then as I do know. I would have done so many things differently.
I feel that way about life… if only I’d known!
martinkadelux recently posted…Reliving those moments…
Time and comfort for sure! If I am not comfortable the workout won’t happen!
Lisa recently posted…Intimacy, Integrity, and High Standards: Interview with Ditch Davey from Black Box #BlackBox
I hear that!
martinkadelux recently posted…Reliving those moments…
These are great tips! Thank you for sharing them.
Sarah @ Must Have Mom recently posted…Have Fun With Colors! Fun Ways To Teach Kids About Colors
Hope they help you!
martinkadelux recently posted…Reliving those moments…