by Nadia Sinclair

As the cooler months swoop in, pregnant women might feel unsure about continuing their outdoor workouts. Hence, we reached out to Miranda Blake, acclaimed physical trainer and the founder of Fit and Flourishing Moms, who shared her essential pointers for staying safe while exercising during the winter season.

Bundle Up, Moms-to-be

In the colder months, the right attire is crucial to keep you warm without overheating during workouts. Miranda explains, “Even though the risk of overheating is less in winter, piling on enough layers is key.” This advice is more critical for pregnant women since their naturally elevated body temperature can make them feel warmer than they are. Miranda advises women to gear up appropriately, especially with gloves and hats, as being pregnant can make them more susceptible to falling ill.

Watch Your Step

While winter workouts pose extra risks like slipping and falling, pregnant women need to be particularly cautious. An accident could potentially harm both mother and child. Miranda emphasizes the importance of vigilance when navigating snowy or icy outdoor terrains. She proposes lower-risk alternatives like indoor exercises or shifting to walking when outdoor conditions are harsh.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Moderate hydration before and after winter workouts becomes even more necessary during pregnancy, with one’s body carrying an extra load. Adequate water intake helps replenish the more significant fluid loss that pregnant women experience due to their higher body fluid volume and increased exertion levels. Miranda notes the importance of having a water bottle handy and advises women to listen to their thirst signals diligently.

Put Safety First

Miranda underscores the need for prioritizing safety, making essential safety suggestions. She recommends sticking to familiar routes, having a phone handy in case of emergencies, and arranging workout companions if possible. Scheduling workouts in the daylight can help minimize risks, such as tripping or slipping on unseen surfaces.

Listen to Your Body

The most crucial tip Miranda shares is the importance of recognizing and respecting your body’s signals. This is especially vital for pregnant women, as the level of exertion suitable varies with pregnancy stages. Miranda also provides a gentle reminder that it’s perfectly fine to switch or downscale the workouts as your pregnancy progresses. It’s all about what feels right for your body and your baby. She concludes with an encouragement to enjoy the process and cherish the unique experience of staying active during pregnancy.

pregnancy fitness, winter workouts, outdoor exercise during pregnancy, safety tips for pregnant women, hydration during pregnancy, safety during workouts, winter exercise gear, running while pregnant, winter fitness, pregnancy health, maternity activewear, maintaining fitness during pregnancy, cold weather workouts, exercise tips for pregnant women, Fit and Flourishing Moms