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Jennifer Cohen’s 5 Pregnancy Fitness Tips

Fitness expert Jennifer Cohen, whose new book, Strong Is the New Skinny: How to Eat, Live and Move to Maximize Your Power (Harmony Books), came out in September, isn’t one for excuses when it comes to working out. (Just take a look at her first effort, 2009’s No Gym Required: Unleash Your Inner Rock Star (Key Porter Books).)

But the mom of one is due to have her second little one in March 2015 and, proving that even the pros need to strategize, admits that this pregnancy has been different. “It’s more challenging to get started this time and I have to remember to be easy on myself on the days where I can just do a brisk walk,” she explains. “But my philosophy is anytime, anywhere, no excuses—and I still stand by that mantra 100 percent!”

And what has she learned from both experiences so far? “It’s best to keep on moving even on the days you want nothing more then to crawl into bed,” she says. “The more active I am the better I feel. It’s like the old saying: a body in motion stays in motion.”

Here are five of her tips for staying safe, strong and ready for anything.

Short Walks

Walking is a great low-impact way to raise your heart rate a bit and get some fresh air. Many of us don't have the time to walk for 20 to 30 minutes at a time, but breaking that into two ten-to 15-minute walks can be equally effective. Just be sure to drink water, especially if the weather is warm.

The Chosen Ones

“My go-to exercises while pregnant are planks to strengthen my core; pelvic tilts, which are extremely important for strengthening your pelvic floor; and split lunges for stability and balance.”

Temperature Control

“Make sure you don’t overheat. Wear breathable clothing and try to work out in a cool and ventilated area.”

High Hydration

“Take multiple water breaks while working out. When you’re pregnant, try to double the amount of fluids you would drink normally.”

Fuel Up

“Eat a healthy snack before you work out to avoid becoming lightheaded and nauseous.”

A Little Goes a Long Way

“Try to take a brisk walk for at least 20 minutes a day to keep your blood circulating and your system working efficiently.”


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