If you want to lose weight and inches, you should feel like you’re working out.  Meaning, if you are reading a book or magazine while you’re on a bike or stairmaster at the gym you’re not maximizing your results.  I say workout “smart”.  By this I mean, in order to get results in a shorter amount of time you should feel your muscles working, and your heart rate increasing.  If you are focused then it would be uncomfortable to workout while reading.  By staying focused on your workout, and working out “smart” you’ll get better results in a shorter amount of time.

Most pregnant are concerned at one time or another with the amount of weight they are gaining.  Some fear they are gaining too much too soon, whereas others are concerned they aren’t gaining enough weight.  The key to gaining the “right” amount of weight is to listen to your body and eat when you’re hungry.  Listen to your cravings and chose healthy foods whenever possible.  So if you’re craving something sweet, opt for a piece of fruit or a fruit smoothie prior to indulging in something sweet high in calories and fat.  As long as you’re listening to your body and eating healthy you are most likely gaining just the amount of weight you need to gain.  For reassurance instead of asking about the number on the scale, ask, “Is my weight ok?  Am I where I need to be”.  Your doctor, midwife, or nurse will let you know.  By focusing less on the number on the scale and more on eating healthy and exercising your anxiety will decrease and you’ll gain more enjoyment out of your pregnancy experience–remember, it’s just 9 mo!

If you’re eager to lose the baby weight, you’ve got to get up and move!  The first step is always the hardest part.  Once you get your exercise clothes and shoes on, you’re on your way to making the first step, which is walking out the door and moving your body!  I recommend putting your workout clothes out in the morning so you see them every time you walk by.  I’ve found the “clothes reminder” really works well for getting my clients to take the first step.  Once you get moving focus on how good it feels to move your body and tell yourself, “I’m doing a good thing, I’m taking care of me!  Each day I exercise I’m becoming more fit”.

Often pregnant women are fearful of exercising while pregnant, especially if they didn’t exercise prior to pregnancy.  As long as you are given the go ahead from your doctor, then it is safe to exercise, and it will benefit both you and your baby. Research has found that women who exercise during their pregnancies generally maintain a healthier weight, have easier labors, and quicker bounce back. 

Prenatal yoga is an excellent form of exercise during your pregnancy.  It’s safe and gentle and still gives a good workout so you can increase your muscle tone, plus you’ll earn postures, and breathing to make your labor easier.  If you’re uncomfortable taking a class try a prenatal yoga dvd.  I created 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimester prenatal yoga dvd’s around my own pregnancy.  For more info visit: http://fitbysara.com/prenatal-yoga.php

Many new moms are eager to lose their pregnancy weight and deprive their bodies and feel guilty about every morsel they put in their mouth.  The result is temporaryweight loss, and increase in moodiness, loss of energy, and lack of patience.  It’s VERY important that you “fuel” your body with nutritious food.  Our bodies need food/ fuel in order to survive!  View your weight loss as a life long change.  Life long changes take a bit more time, but the results last forever.  Learn to listen to your body and chose healthy food that will fuel your body when you’re hungry.  When you listen to your body, exercise consistently your weight will come off naturally.

Don’t deprive= Listen to your body= Chose healthy foods when hungry= Exercise consistnently=LIFETIME WEIGHT LOSS