Hitting the gym or heading to yoga may be the last thing you want to do while you're pregnant, especially compared with other important activities like eating, napping, and catching up on Netflix.
But our friend Meg Miles of MOMSTRONG—a personal trainer, pediatric nurse, and a mama (with baby number two on the way!)—says getting your sweat on should be high on your list of priorities during your pregnancy. Each week on her Instagram, Meg shares free at-home workouts, fitness tips, and lessons from motherhood, plus she dishes up a dose of body positivity and quick, healthy recipes for family meals. #momcrush
We asked Meg to bestow our readers with some of her health and wellness wisdom. Below, she shares five helpful tips for exercising with a baby bump, and the top benefits of weight lifting during your pregnancy.
TIPS FOR EXERCISING DURING PREGNANCY
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Check with your doctor or healthcare provider first before you get started.
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Listen to your body.
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Avoid lying flat on your back after your first trimester.
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Rest and recover.
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Use proper breathing and lifting techniques. Need some help? Check out Meg's site for more tips, or consider signing up for personal training sessions.
BENEFITS OF WEIGHT LIFTING DURING PREGNANCY
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Can help ease pain and pregnancy discomfort
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Builds stamina for labor and delivery
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Helps with post-labor recovery
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Keeps your weight gain within a healthy range
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Helps improve your posture
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Strengthens your body and mind
Check out the MOMSTRONG blog and follow Meg on Instagram for more fitness tips. motivation, and advice for healthy living!
