I thought that this was a fitting topic as I am currently 12 weeks pregnant with my second child and struggling with motivation to get in as much exercise as I probably should be.  Then I stumbled upon an interesting article on one of my personal trainer sites.  It states that only 1 in 4 pregnant women get the 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each day that is recommended by ACOG (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology).  

I, of course, know the benefits of exercising while pregnant such as lower risk of gestational diabetes, depression, and hypertension but that doesn't always make it easier to get going.   I am happy to announce that I am getting the recommended amount of exercise but my program and exercise selection has changed and continues to change daily based on how I am feeling.   I cannot stress enough how much better your pregnancy will go and how much better your mood and energy level is when you incorporate it into your pregnancy. 

Speaking from experience it is hard to be motivated but it is well, well, worth it.  Give it a shot.  If you are not accustomed to exercise start slowly and work up to 30 minutes.  Listen to your body. 

Here are some recommendations from ACOG:

Talk to you doctor before starting an exercise program.

After the first trimester, avoid exercises that require you to lie on your back.

Avoid exercising in hot, humid weather or when you have a fever.

Wear comfortable clothing and a bra that fits well and gives lots of support.

Drink plenty of water during exercise to avoid dehydration.

Stop exercising if you experience vaginal bleeding, dizziness, chest pain, headache, muscle weakness, calf pain or swelling, uterine contractions, decreased fetal movement, or fluid leaking from the vagina.

I have lots of great ideas and can relate to what you are going through so please if you are pregnant and have any concerns about what is safe or unsafe please give me a call.   Or if you just need a little shove in the right direction to be the 1 out of 4 that IS getting the exercise needed I can help. 

Here's to a healthy pregnancy!!

Amy