While it is never safe to go on any diet to lose weight during pregnancy, there are things that you can do to stay healthy and get in shape. Diets that are focused on losing weight can harm your baby and you. You and your baby need so many nutrients during this time it is not smart to actually try to lose weight like you normally would.

It is smart however to get your body in shape. You want to be prepared for labor, to make it as easy as you possibly can. Exercise also can make you feel better about yourself and ease the aches and pains of pregnancy.

What are the benefits of exercising during pregnancy?

Exercising while you are pregnant will boost your energy level. Instead of wanting to constantly sleep all the time, you will have more energy to move and get going.

Do you have aches and pains from the quick weight gain of pregnancy? Exercising can get your muscles moving around which will ease some of these aches and pains, ultimately making you feel better.

Another benefit of exercising during pregnancy is it will help you get back to your pre pregnancy weight faster. Why not give your future diet, “Losing baby weight after the baby” a kick start?

Can I continue my same workout I did pre pregnancy?

If you exercised regularly before getting pregnant, then you can continue the same workout and modify it as you need. It is not safe for you or baby to continue workouts such as skiing, horseback riding or any kind of contact sport. These activities can possibly cause bodily injury if you fall or get hurt and could hurt the baby.

What if I did not exercise at all before pregnancy?

If you did not exercise regularly before baby, it is not too late to start.

Take it slowly though, and let your body adjust to the new movements. Do not do anything that could jar the baby or hurt you or baby in anyway.

What workouts are safe for me and my baby?

You can try swimming, dancing, water aerobics, walking, biking, Pilates or yoga. Remember to take any workout slow, even if it does seem easy you do not want to harm you or baby.

How often should I workout?

Try working out 3 days a week. Remember to talk to your doctor and make sure it is safe for you and your baby before starting any workout.

Things to look for during a workout:

Stop working out if you become dizzy or have shortness of breathe. If your heart begins beating too hard, stop your workout. Any type of vaginal bleeding, call your doctor immediately and stop working out.

Other ways to stay in shape:

Eat 5 -6 small meals a day. Eating small meals throughout the day has been proven to speed your metabolism up and assist in losing weight.

Also eat healthy snacks like fruit, crackers and cheese.

Eat healthier.

Forget about all the junk food. You wouldn't stay in shape before your pregnancy eating them, you definitely won't during pregnancy.

Try eating more fruits and vegetables. Substitute fried for grilled foods.

Try to steer clear of fast food restaurants. Most fast food restaurants now have a healthy menu. So if you have to eat at one, try eating a grilled chicken sandwich rather than a hamburger or anything fried. They also now sell a variety of salads.

Remember before starting any workout regimen you should discuss it with your doctor. Not all pregnant women can workout and all pregnancies are different. Talk to your doctor before starting anything.

For normal pregnancies after you talk to your doctor, you should be able to stay in shape and be prepared for the big day!