At the start of the week, kicking of pre-natal classes again, was definitely not on my agenda! Which were on my lockdown agenda was to start composing a pre-natal guide since several women have contacted me and requested such a program. But I was always split in two. Because I want to help you to stay active during your pregnancy. But it's also a mammoth task to acomplish to write a guide for pregnant women. As no two women's journeys will be the same. And I wouldn't be near to assit with posture corrections or adaptions where needed. So, I had a tough time trying to convince myself to do a guide that women can follow on their own. But thanks to one of my previous pre & post natal clients - I have decided to go online with the pre-natal classes. For obvious reasons, the times we're living in does not allow for any group fitness classes to take place face to face. But the online classes also enables me to access a much bigger area. As I am now able to help women from all across South Africa and not only in Potchefstroom! So kudo's so mamma Erika for the massive inspiration! Just putting it out there, baby number 2 can come now. We're ready!😉 If you're reading this, I assume that you or someone you know are currently pregnant! So, a massive congratulations is in order! It's such a blessing and adventure all at once! We all know that pregnancy comes with a lot of changes and challenges. And not every part might be exciting and glorious. Even though the new chapter might be daunting, there is no need to put exercise off completely. With the help of a certified pre- & post natal personal trainer (me 🤪) - you can stay active throughout your pregnancy! Studies have repeatedly shown that not only is it safe to train during pregnancy, but it is also highly beneficial for the mother as well as the unborn baby! Typically, if you were physically active before you were pregnant, it is likely safe to remain active during pregnancy. Exercise does not put you at risk for miscarriage in a normal pregnancy (meaning that you have no other risk factors such as high blood presssure, etc). But we recommend that you still get doctor's clearance before you participate in any form of exercise whilst you are pregnant. More than likely, your healthcare provider will tell you to remain active, as long as it is comfortable and there are no other health conditions suggesting otherwise. Exercise is an activity that improves all over health and wellnes and should be optimised at all times! Even when you are pregnant! Women who were active during their pregnancies have healthier babies in general. Healthy moms have healthy babies they say. Staying active during your pregnancy will also help you to recover faster after labour and getting you pre-baby body back. During pregnancy your aim should never be to start training for a marathon or major weight loss. There was plenty of time for that before your pregnancy and there will be plenty more time for it after you little one is born. However, studies have shown that women whom have had an active pregnancy - are more likely to lose weight easily after giving birth. Therefore the aim off pre-natal fitness is purely to keep you in good shape, prevent excessive weight gain and preparing and strengthening your pelvic muscles to get ready for labour (normal & c-section). If the interest is there - I'd do a full blog post on exercise & pregnancy as well! So it's clear that exercise during pregnancy is good for you, but why do we say that? Excercising for at leadt 30 minutes 3 to 4 days a week is beneficial for your health during pregnancy. The important thing is to be active and get your blood flowing. What ate the benefits of exercising during pregnancy? • Decreased risk / relief from backaches, constipation, bloating and swelling. • May help prevent gestational diabetes. • Increase your energy. • Improve your mood. • Improve your posture. • Promotes muscle tone, strength, and endurance. • Helps you sleep better. Many pregnant women might say they don't have energy for anything - let alone to exercise. However, exercising will actually give you more energy. As blood circulation will improve providing more oxygen to your brain as well as the rest of your body! And it will also secrete endorphins - hormones which will make you feel better - more commonly know as the happy hormones!
Classes kick off on Tuesday, 12 May 2020.
Every Tuesday & Thursday from 17:00 to 18:00