Being able to grow a human in your body is something exceptional. As an active woman, my plan was never to stop moving once pregnant. Maintaining my active lifestyle was super important to me, so I adapted my usual routine by doing what I believe is safe and healthy for my baby, which by the way, is different for every woman. Don’t succumb to peer pressure, find what works for YOU. It can be difficult to let go of your old training sessions, but for more or less a year, we need to change and adapt to the level of activity we may be used to!  

Here are a few tips on how I stayed active and healthy throughout pregnancy, and kept up with cycling: 

Listen to Your Body

Listen to your body and do not put any pressure on yourself to be the same speed or endurance level that you were a few months ago. You may surprise yourself and realize that you’re still fully capable of being just as active as when you weren’t carrying around that extra weight.

Morning Stretches

Likely your exhaustion levels will be akin to those felt after climbing Mt Everest. Remember that this feeling will pass (typically it’s only in the first few months). Get your body moving with some awakening morning stretches - swing your arms, cat/cows, and light lunges.  

Accountability

Accountability is a great motivator, so join in your local group cycling rides. The fresh air and being on the road with friends will absolutely help you forget any fatigue you’re dealing with!

Shorter Distances

Realize that heading out for 100+km rides may put more stress on your body, so aim for shorter distances, see how you feel, and go from there.  

Cycling Class

Don’t worry - your belly will not get in the way of your riding until the very end! If you start to feel uncomfortable on your road bike, then head indoors to a cycling class where you can easily adjust the seat, avoid any hills, and you can also go at your own pace.

Stay Hydrated!

Keep a refillable water bottle with you at all times. Dehydration can lead to great fatigue, headaches and dizziness, which you really want to keep away from especially while pregnant! As you are also providing nutrients for another little being, dehydration can strike faster than you are used to, so stay hydrated!

Remember that pregnancy is not a time to try and push your limits. Keep doing what you love, continue your social activities as seeing friends will make you happy! Being part of a cycling community is a great opportunity to stay active while being surrounded by people who care and will look out for you. Stay active, stay safe and most importantly, take care of yourself and of that little baby growing!

Julie Babin, proud ambassador of the PEPPERMINT Collective and now mom!

Photo d'en-tête : Élisabeth Anctil-Martin