Mom Advice

Question

I'm weary of what I can and cannot do now I'm far along in my pregnancy. What are some ways to stay fit at home now I am in my third trimester and not interested in taking a prenatal class outside my home?
— Kayla, Cranford, New Jersey

Answer

Tracey Mallett, mom of two, master Pilates instructor and producer of the 3 in 1 Pregnancy System DVD (Tracey Mallett Fitness) graciously answers this question -

Light walking and swimming is always recommended. It's great exercise and also helps with sluggish blood circulation that you maybe experiencing at this time. Total body stretching is always important especially to prepare the hips for child birth and elongate the spine from the negative force of all your new found baby weight.

Try sitting tall with the soles of your feet together and knees open to the side, slightly extend the spine forward leading with the breast bone and hinge from the hips. Hold the stretch up to a minute and don't forget to breathe!

There's always the option to do some prenatal yoga or Pilates DVDs in the comfort of your living room, remember only do as much as YOU feel conformable with. You will be amazed how a little exercise will give you new energy and ease of movement to make it through those last hard weeks.

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