Having a baby changes everything. While some of those changes are amazing and wonderful, other changes are not so great. One of the biggest things that women worry about in pregnancy is gaining weight and becoming physically inactive.
I'd like to tell you not to worry, that everything will be just fine. But I can't. The truth is that you have to work at staying active and being healthy. It's something that just has to be done.
The good news is that staying healthy is easier than ever. Now we understand the importance of exercise and movement and of eating well. And knowing is half the battle.
There are three huge barriers that seem to be predictors of pregnant women ceasing to be active:
- Children at home
- Longer working hours
- Lack of childcare
The even better news about walking is that it can be done, even with the factors listed above. Have children at home? Or not enough child care? Get a stroller, even a double stroller! Working long hours? Walk at lunch, before or after work. Heck, you can even take the stairs or walk to a co-worker's office rather than call.
I've found that the best thing to do is to find a group of other women who want to walk too. Meet at the mall and walk around before the stores open. Not only do you get exercise but some adult conversation. Don't let pregnancy and postpartum be an excuse to stop exercising. You'll feel better, lose your pregnancy weight and be healthier.
Source
Predictors of Change in Physical Activity During and After Pregnancy: Project Viva. Pereira MA, Rifas-Shiman SL, Kleinman KP, Rich-Edwards JW, Peterson KE and Gillman MW. American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
Volume 32, Issue 4, April 2007, Pages 312-319.
