Are you recently pregnant? In your third trimester? Or somewhere in between? We all know that pregnancy can be tough on any gym rat who is missing spending their days doing their regular workouts. Or maybe, you are just looking for a way to stay fit and healthy without hurting your baby. Well, we’ve got that all right here. Here are some of our favorite exercises you can do while pregnant.

1. Walking 

This could be on a treadmill at your gym or around your neighborhood in the morning. This is nice because you can control the terrain you are walking on. That means you can strategically avoid hills and go as far as you are comfortable on that day. If you’re normally a runner, try to start running at first and let your body know when you should start walking. As you get further along in your pregnancy, the more you’ll probably have to switch to walking.

2. Water Aerobics

This can help to give you great relief, especially if you are feeling like the biggest person in the room everywhere you go. This is great for your muscles and your joints. Try doing some cardio workouts in a pool, or even just walk in a circle. Make sure you wear some water shoes or something with a grip on your feet so that you don’t slip once you are in the pool. For once, you won’t feel too hot!

 3. Biking 

We would suggest using a stationary bike at your gym, but if you do bike outside, make sure that you’re in control of your body and not feeling fatigued. A recumbent bike can be the ultimate best choice because it will give your back the support you need. But feel free to use an upright bike if you feel comfortable and ready for a more intense workout. The only con of this exercise is that by your third trimester your belly could be getting in the way of your pedaling.

4. Yoga

This can help to increase your flexibility and strengthen your core. Yoga is great for any stressed out mother to be. It helps keep you calm because it has an emphasis on regulating breathing and meditation. The motions tend to be slower and held longer, so you won’t feel like you have to move slower than those around you.

5. Pilates 

Pilates is another popular class that most gyms offer. This exercise also helps to strengthen your belly and can really help with the birthing process. Be careful that you have a foam mat that will support your back and belly enough throughout the workout.

 6. Weight Lifting

Who says that you can’t be toned and pregnant? Weight lifting is a completely safe and helpful workout you can still participate in when you are pregnant. It’s important to use a lower weight than you normally do with more reps to be safer. Be careful that you limit how long you are staying in one position, so try to switch machines as often as possible. 

Other Important Exercise Tips:

You may become more fatigued during your pregnancy as you work out. Make sure that you listen to your body and stop when you need to. Also, make sure that you are hydrating yourself sufficiently every time you work out, and replacing the calories you burned later in what you are eating. Working out is a great way to make you feel better and even help your baby feel better. Let us know what you thought of these tips below!