WORK IT, BABY ( MAMA)

Worried about piling on pounds? ‘It’s advisable to exercise and adapt your routine for your growing belly,’ explains Christiane Duigan, director of Bodyism. ‘But it takes nine months to make a baby and nine months to recover, so if you feel fifit and well enough, go for it. But if you don’t, that’s fifififine too.’ SPINNING ‘Spinning is low impact and, as women’s joints loosen and balance is affected during pregnancy, it’s a fantastic way to stay fifit and happy,’ says Rhian Stephenson, managing director of Psycle. Fitness level required: 2 SQUATTING ‘Doing squats daily will build strength and endurance and prepare you for the later stages of pregnancy. It can even make birth easier because of the biomechanic similarities between a squat and the birthing thing process,’ recommends ecommends Lee Mullins, founder of Workshop Gymnasium. Fitness level required: equired:

1 YOGA ‘This develops balance, confidence and self-awareness, wareness, providing a way y to exercise without strain. The focusocus on breathing develops velops confidence confifidence in your body’s ability to give birth,’ says pregnancy yoga teacher Romy Lewis. Fitness level required:

2 RUNNING ‘Light aerobic exercises such as running are essential for a healthy heart, especially during pregnancy. It’ll also improve your core strength, circulation and sleep. Opt for a pregnancy support belt as your bump grows and remember now is not the time to try to hit personal bests,’ advises Joslyn Thompson Rule, master Nike trainer. Fitness level required: 2