Hi Bree,

I'm a personal trainer so thought I'd pop in to help out. A few years ago there was a rule about not getting your heartrate above 135/140bpm.. but now the advice is more along these lines:

* anything you were doing before pregnancy, you can keep doing (this refers to general exercise in the gym/classes etc)
* Don't let yourself overheat - and stay hydrated
* Nothing lying on your back after 12 weeks
* If you have any underlying conditions make sure your Doctor gives you limits/advice on this.
* Don't hold your breath during any exercises - always breathe!

I kept lifting weights (and obviously modified the weight as time went on), kept cycling, kept doing push ups, core stability work etc. You can keep doing crunches on floor or fitball at the moment, but better to do your prone holds/side holds etc as they are more functional anyway.

Plenty of walking/swimming is good throughout. I personally think its important to do as much leg work as you can, even if you have to modify squats by not going too wide or deep etc, because you need that leg strength once you go into labour if you are planning an active labour. I had a 30 hour labour and was so thankful I kept my fitness up because it really helped me!

My best advice all of this taken into account, is to LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Everyone is different. If you are doing a class or an exercise and you are hesitant because you aren't sure if it feels ok, just stop. Your body will let you know what is ok and what isn't. Stay in tune with yourself and you won't have any trouble.