There has been much debate about the type and amount of exercise women should do throughout their pregnancy, but it is important to listen to your body – and your doctor – on what is right for you, according to Emily Skye. The fitness influencer, who is expecting her first child, has shared her top tips for staying fit throughout pregnancy and how to adjust your workouts through each trimester.
Speaking as she joined Anthony Joshua to launch the new Lucozade FitWater, Emily explained: "The biggest tip I will give is getting the all clear from your doctor first. There are a lot of people out there who seem to be experts, but the most important people to listen to is your doctor and yourself. When you're pregnant it's not about losing fat, staying lean, building muscle or how you look - it is about the health of you and your baby."
Emily Skye has shared her top pregnancy fitness advice
The personal trainer added: "Everyone's journey is unique and it is important to focus on your own pregnancy, rather than comparing yourself to other people. Being really in tune with your body and knowing when you are pushing yourself too far. I am putting on fat and cellulite, but I am truly embracing it, as my baby is the most important thing."
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Emily announced the news that she is pregnant in June, telling her 2.1 million Instagram followers that she was "so excited" to become a mother. The mum-to-be has been open about her experiences of pregnancy, and admitted she struggled to exercise during the first trimester.
Asked about her advice for how pregnant women should adapt their workouts, Emily said: "If you are already used to doing something, the general rule of thumb is to continue what you are doing providing your doctor has given you the all clear. I have worked out and lifted weights for several years, so I know what I am doing and my form is good.
The personal trainer is expecting her first child
"However in the first trimester I was very sick and could not work out - so I just let go of it and did not beat myself up. When I could eventually get back into it, my workout intensity was less extreme. I have dropped my weights right down, am doing roughly half what I did before and do not let myself get to the point where I am exhausted."
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Now she says her workouts are more of a focus on boosting her mood and preparing for motherhood, explaining: "It's more of a feel good work out, to make sure that I get the blood flowing and maintain a strong core and pelvic floor that will support me with the birth and carrying the baby when I get bigger."
Anthony Joshua and Emily Skye joined Lucozade Sport, the UK's number one sports drink brand as they entered the water market for the first time, at the launch event for FitWater.