Goal Setting for the Pregnant Exerciser

We have already established, in previous posts, that exercise is important during pregnancy, but it is also important to have a goal when venturing into an exercise program during pregnancy. Each pregnant individual will undoubtedly be starting on a different level of fitness.

Pregnant exercisers should be aware of the following:

Beginners (your goals should be):
- a healthy amount of weight gain
- a raise and/or optimization of energy
- a positive body image
- boost muscular strength and longevity for during pregnancy, delivery and birth
NOTE: For absolute beginners, it is recommended that you wait until the second trimester before you start an exercise program due to the learning curve, the risk of injury and uncertainty.

Non-competitive athletes or Regular exercisers (your goals should be):
- a healthy amount of weight gain
- physical preparation for labor
- improving or maintaining fitness during pregnancy
- feel good about yourself and your growing body

Competitive or Elite athletes (your goals should be):
- having a healthy pregnancy
- maintaining fitness and sport specific skills
- avoiding strenuous exercises
- avoiding risky behavior that were part of previous exercise schedule

Please note that, again, everyone is different and each pregnancy is different. You may fall into different categories as well, depending on complications or other factors. however, safety should always be the number one determinant.