Hopefully you saw the news earlier this week–I’m pregnant! One of the major changes I’ve experienced is a shift in my workouts. I’m going to share the trimester-by-trimester modifications I’m making to my workouts (and tips for you!), but before we get to that, today I’m sharing my (updated) gym gear essentials. It’s been a bit of a dreary winter so I’m needing a few things to keep me extra motivated this season. Below are my must-have items for staying motivated at the gym, while keeping my workouts safe and effective.
(1) Adidas Ultra Boost Sneakers (2) Healthy Human Water Bottle (3) Lighter Dumbbells (4) RX Nut Butter Snack (5) Fitbit Versa (6) Mini Bands
My Pregnancy Gym Essentials
I’ll start by saying, these are relevant whether you are pregnant or not. There are certain wellness staples I’ve skimped on prior to pregnancy that I’m now putting extra emphasis on. These are items that are key to ensure I’m staying healthy, hydrated and energized at the gym.
The Perfect Pair of Sneakers
Prior to pregnancy I ran a lot but I recently switched to incline walking. If during pregnancy you are changing up your workout routine, your shoes may need a change as well. Pregnant or not, you should be replacing your sneakers somewhere around every 6 months. This is particularly important during pregnancy as your feet are likely to change during this time. Some women experience foot growth or changes in their arches during (or after) pregnancy, plus swelling is very common. Pay attention to how your shoes are feeling during your workout and consider getting fit for new sneakers if something suddenly feels off. I’m currently wearing adidas Ultra Boost sneakers and love the amount of cushioning they provide.
A Large Water Bottle
Hydration is key all of the time, but if you’re pregnant, consider taking it up a notch. During pregnancy your body requires even more water than it normally does, and this is especially important if you’re working out and sweating. I always bring my 21 oz Healthy Human bottle to the gym to stay on top of my water intake.
Dumbbell Options
If you were lifting weights before pregnancy, it’s a great activity to continue throughout your pregnancy. But, you may need to switch up your dumbbell choice. It’s a personal decision here with how you modify workouts. I still include lifting in my weekly workouts but stick to 10 pounds or less when selecting weights. Since I’m erring on the lighter side, I bought a set of 8 pound weights to have at home. This way if I don’t make it to the gym I can still add a little strength work into my day.
A Hearty Snack
Pregnancy hunger is real! You never know when it might strike so I always have something on hand. RX bars or nut butters are an easy option to toss in your bag. Prior to pregnancy, if I was at the gym I’d ignore hunger cues and finish up my workout. Now if I start to feel hungry I stop for a quick something before continuing with my workout.
A Heart Rate Watch
It used to be pretty common to hear that during pregnancy you shouldn’t raise your heart rate above 140. Recently this has changed and isn’t the standard advice doled out. Everyone’s heart rate maxes are different so you don’t necessarily need to abide by a specific number. I tend to tune my workouts based on how I’m feeling and what level exertion I’m at, but I also like having a heart rate watch to keep the numbers in mind. I’ve been using the Fitbit Versa and it’s also been great because it ensures I’m moving throughout the day and getting sufficient steps in.
Mini Bands
One of my favorite workout accessories! Mini bands are just that, super mini, so they barely take up any space in your home, gym bag or suitcase. I use these to make squats more challenging. I’m doing a lot of squats these days as it’s a really good workout for your hips, glutes and pelvic floor muscles (key during pregnancy, labor and beyond).
Exercise and staying active during pregnancy is super important. What helps you stay motivated and moving (pregnant or not!)?
*Please note, I am not a doctor and these are purely my opinions on working out during pregnancy. Everyone and every pregnancy is different, consult a doctor before starting a new fitness routine.
