Before we knew we were pregnant, we’d planned a trip to Vietnam. A few weeks later, we found out we were expecting! With the realisation that this would be our last kid-free holiday for a while, we decided to take a month away, just the two (three, if you count the one in utero) of us!
Getting away was a really lovely way to relax, explore somewhere new and enjoy time as a couple. It couldn’t have come at a better time: right in the middle of second trimester! I felt great, didn’t notice my tummy growing too much and sometimes forgot for a few hours, or a day, that I was even pregnant!
Read: Alisha’s first trimester thoughts
We did our best to stay consistent with our health principles while away and even fitted in a few workouts at some local gyms. My energy had returned almost to normal, meaning I’m able to run around like a crazy person getting lots done like usual! However, I’ve been thinking that before the birth, it will probably serve me well if I do actually slow down and start to mentally and physically prepare for the change of pace once baby arrives. Otherwise, I’m sure I’ll be in for a rude shock!
I’ve continued to read and research exercise during pregnancy as I’ve progressed. I’ve been very encouraged that it is completely safe for me (as a low-risk, no contraindications pregnancy) to continue my regular workouts with some minor adjustments.
The latest research from governing bodies such as The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends if you are healthy and your pregnancy is normal, it is safe to continue or start most types of exercise, with a few modifications. Australian, American and Canadian guidelines all recommend pregnant women get at least 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise every week.
The benefits of exercise during pregnancy far outweigh the risks. Benefits include reduced back pain, decreased risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and caesarean delivery, and weight control during and after pregnancy. It improves your overall fitness and strength, and makes you feel good!
If you are pregnant, make sure you have your doctor’s approval before doing any form of exercise and, if possible, seek out a trained pre- or post-natal trainer to guide you on what’s appropriate for you. Remember that everyone’s pregnancy experiences are different, so do what you can and don’t compare yourself with anyone else. Always listen to your body.
I’ve been cleared to perform the type of exercise I’m doing, and have been modifying my training throughout my pregnancy so that it’s doable for me.
Looking forward to the third trimester
Since arriving home from the babymoon, I’ve really started to look forward to everything that’s to come! My mind is on setting up the nursery, reading books on a calm, gentle birth, and how I can spiritually prepare for parenthood. I’ve chosen to surround myself with other women and mums who have similar values to me when it comes to birth and parenting, so I can shut out the negativity and anxiety that often comes from open forums. And I’m enjoying taking time each evening to think about, talk to and pray for this new little life that’s growing inside me.
And I’m feeling the kicks! Yay!
Read: Alisha’s third trimester thoughts
Exercise for pregnant women
Alisha is Mums At The Table’s resident PT. Find more exercises for pregnant women here.
