Exercise has always been important to me but since being pregnant I have lowered the intensity of my workout. I know being pregnant I'm tired all the time but I have made a conscience decision to stay active and keep healthy during pregnancy. Exercise was not easy during my first trimester, I was nausea and always tired so wanting to go work out was hard for me. I made every little excuse possible to avoid the gym. I probably gained the most weight during this time since I ate whatever I wanted too and did little exercise. The second trimester, I had a burst of energy and a new out look on pregnancy. I was wanting to work out and was walking on the treadmill or doing the ellipitical almost every day. Now during my third trimester, I notice my energy has declined but I still make time for the gym, 4-5 times a week. Even at times I have to force myself to go but after the work out I feel great. I usually do 30 mins of cardio, I keep my heart rate around 140s-150s, it varies with everyone. The rule of thumb is that you should be able to have a conversation without being out of breath and I stay hydrated through out the day and while I exercise. There's a myth that pregnant woment shouldn't lift weights but I was lifting before I got pregnant and my doctor gave me the ok. So now I'm still lifting but using lighter weights. I do avoid exercises that strains or puts too much pressure on my body. If you were working out before pregnancy there should be no reason why you shouldn't work out while you're pregnant unless you are medically advise not too. I remember a few Saturdays ago, I did my usual work out routine and decided to come home and clean the house, mid way through cleaning I just got really tired and nausea, I pushed myself a little too hard that day and needed to rest. Know your body and limits! Gradual weight gain is best for the body and even on days when I don't go to the gym, I stretch and do a few squats at home.
