BUMPING ALONG
Former Strictly star Gemma Atkinson, 34, welcomed her first child last week. During her pregnancy, she regularly shared updates on social media about her workouts. These included squats, curls and side leg raises – all approved by her doctor.
“Birth is physically demanding,” adds personal trainer Rosie. “You need to have endurance and after the birth, the work doesn’t stop. You can be fit and happy
– you don’t need to just hibernate.”
There’s no evidence that exercise could cause a miscarriage and scientists in Spain have found that regular exercise during pregnancy could slash 50 minutes off the agony of labour. Physical activity also helps to…
■ Lower the risk of excess weight gain.
■ Prevent gestational diabetes.
■ Improve your sleep.
■ Promote muscle tone, strength and endurance.
■ Improve your mood and posture.
■ Boost your postnatal recovery and mental health.