It's Fun to Play at the Y-M-C-A
I've read a lot about the importance of exercising during pregnancy, but it also seems to me that it's equally important to exercise in preparation for pregnancy. Our bodies have to carry so much extra weight, and I imagine it would be easier if we had stronger core muscles. And what about stronger arm muscles for schlepping around a baby once it arrives?
Currently, my exercise regime consists of running (er, jogging) three to four times a week and doing 15 minutes of yoga three times a week. Now that my calendar is more clear, I'm wondering if I should join the YMCA and start taking classes (like Pilates and Nia), swimming, and doing some light weights.
The YMCA near my house offers the following appealing classes: Pilates, Nia, Hip Hop, Express Abs, and Spinning. I'll have to call and check out the rates. Working out at the Y might be a nice way to occupy some of my time this summer...
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5 comments:
I would recommend checking out the Self challenge (from Self magazine). They have strength training workouts (and cardio) on their web site you could do at home or the gym. It only takes about 20 minutes 2-3 times a week (for strength) and you will feel SO much stronger! It has made a big difference for my body.
The Y is AWESOME! They do a sliding scale when it comes to costs and they also go according to your age. I joined years ago down the street from my office and I paid almost nothing for a great facility. I also loved their pilates and spinning classes. My husband and I are thinking of joining again, since we've gained a few (lots) of pounds since getting married & we want to start TTC this fall.
Exercise is always good, don't get me wrong, but I've noticed something: whenever you free up time in your schedule, you post about more new things you can do which will fill up that time! Hope you're still setting aside some relaxation time and not filling up your time too much!
@ Anonymous: Thanks for the tip! I will definitely check it out.
@ Jennie: You're totally right. I need to be very, very careful (please keep reminding me!). I promise the exercise will only be in place of exercise I already do, not in addition to it.
If you're looking for lower-cost options (kids are expensive too!) you could see what DVDs the library has to offer. They might have Pilates, etc. and you could get a pair of weights from Target, or use things around the house, like water bottles, bags of flour/sugar, canned food.
I'm so in awe of how you're always working to better yourself and how organized and motivated you are in your life. I think it's wonderful that you're putting so much effort and time and thought into pregnancy and birth before you even start trying to have a baby. If only most people were able to and did put so much thought into it.
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