Get Fit To Pop - 10 reasons to exercise during pregnancy

Nicola Sinclair has recently started teaching 'Fit to Pop' exercise classes in our London store on Thursday evenings.  As a Personal Trainer Nicola is specifically trained to teach exercises that are appropriate for pregnancy. Women,who exercised regularly before becoming pregnant,  are not given the support from their gym as staff are not specifically trained in how to support a pregnant woman.  A class with Nicola ensures you get coaching appropriate to where you are in your pregnancy and your fitness level. Eva

As a mother myself, I know exactly what it feels like to be propelled into a whole new world of responsibilities. What to eat, what not to eat, feet up or keep moving? The rules, regulations and expectations can leave you feeling somewhat overwhelmed and a million miles away from your former self.

The truth is, that pregnancy exercise has come a long way in the last few years and is now considered essential to having a healthy pregnancy. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologist  (RCOG) say, “Studies show that, in most cases, exercise is safe for both mother and fetus during pregnancy and support recommendations to initiate or continue exercise in most pregnancies to derive the health benefits associated with such activities”. They continue to say “All women should be encouraged to participate in appropriate aerobic and strength-conditioning exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle during their pregnancy”.

As a mother and a specialist in pre and postnatal exercise here are my top 10 reasons to keep active during your pregnancy and get ‘Fit To Pop’:

1. Easier, shorter labour.  Research and my own personal experience have shown that exercise during pregnancy, that focuses specifically on the core and pelvic floor muscles can assist you greatly on the big day.


2. Avoid excessive weight gain. Whilst weight gain is essential for a healthy pregnancy, too much weight can cause a whole host of unwanted issues such as gestational diabetes, back pain and low self-esteem.


3. Maintain fitness. No one expects you to reach your peak fitness during pregnancy but maintaining your baseline fitness will help to aid pregnancy outcomes as well as support a successful return to training post-partum.


4. Reduction in labour pain. Regular workouts increase your pain threshold.


5. Improved posture.  Regular exercise stretches and strengthens your muscles, which helps your body cope better with the aches and pains of pregnancy.


6. Sleep better. Exercise helps you sleep better by relieving the stress and anxiety that might make you restless at night.


7. The feel good factor. Exercise will help you experience higher energy levels during and after pregnancy by strengthening your cardiovascular system.


8. Reduced swelling. Frequent, moderate cardiovascular exercise improves circulation and blood flow.


9. Happy Days.  Exercise boosts levels of serotonin, a brain chemical linked to mood, giving you a natural high.


10. Faster recovery. Maintain your strength and muscle tone during pregnancy and your body will have an easier time bouncing back after you give birth.

To book a trial class please contact Nicola Sinclair on 07701068325  nicolasinclairpt@gmail.com