Exercise For Pregnancy: Getting In Shape Before You Are Pregnant

It is certainly easier to lose weight, get in shape and exercise before pregnancy than it is while you are expecting a baby and already dealing with plenty of pregnancy symptoms. There are plenty of arguments in favour of working on your health and fitness to conceive; obese women have a higher risk of pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. And whilst pregnancy exercise is recommended and safe for pregnant women, trying to lose lots of weight during pregnancy isn't advisable because your growing baby needs high quality calories.

But if you are trying to conceive, getting in shape before is a great idea - so here are some pre-pregnancy exercise tips for you:

• Women who are trying to conceive should pay close attention to the quality of the foods they are consuming rather than the exact number of calories. Make sure that the calories you get are 'good' ones – protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains, and not just foods that fill you up and quick fixes.

• Now is the time to say NO to fast food, and commit to cooking at home if you don’t do that already. If you already eat healthy foods, but perhaps too much of them, cutting back on calories is a sound idea.

• Regular exercise before pregnancy is always beneficial. If you don’t have much time on your hands, there are many ways to incorporate physical activity into your daily life; try parking your car further away from your destination, use the stairs instead of hopping on the lift, or even something relaxed like working in your garden if you have one. Any physical activity is good for your body, so thinking outside of the box can help you get in shape more quickly.

• Are you struggling with food cravings? Giving up fast food is not unlike kicking any other addiction, like smoking. A friend who recently reached her weight loss goal said that drinking a large glass of water every time she felt the urge to eat was a great help. Drinking water improves your skin quality, helps kidney function, and fills the stomach.

If you are wondering whether it is safe to get pregnant with your current weight, consult your GP. You don’t have to be the perfect weight to conceive a baby and have a healthy pregnancy, but it will almost certainly make your pregnancy easier.