Embracing exercise for fertility

A quick Google search for “Serena Williams fitness routine” is enough to make most people shudder and while Serena might make it look like a piece of cake, we mere mortals don’t have to follow [insert clever cake pun here]. 

While the idea of being able to “train like the pros” might appeal to you (or not) you probably don’t need to join a CrossFit cult in order to get pregnant. 

Researchers have found that people who do regular, moderate exercise get pregnant faster than those who don’t. So, what’s the best way to approach exercise while trying to conceive?

Today we’ll discuss three ways you can embrace exercise and get that TTC glow-up!

1. Keep it Moderate

In our January newsletters, we told you that drastic changes to your diet and lifestyle aren’t necessary if you’re trying to get pregnant. Similarly, running a marathon isn’t necessary either (phew).

Regular, moderate activity is all you need.

Planting orchids, walking the dog, swimming or going for a gentle bike ride all count. Anything that will raise your heart rate, make you breathe faster and feel warmer. You should still be able to talk without pausing for breath. If you can still hold a conversation then it’s moderate. 👍

2. Consistency is Key

We said it last week and we’ll say it again: Our bodies like consistency. 

Sudden, drastic changes to your lifestyle can play havoc on your body and disturb your hormones. Remember, our bodies have changed relatively little from the middle ages - if you suddenly start running long distances your body thinks you’re being chased by a Viking (not trying to get fit). 

3.  Strength > Cardio

While most of us spend our time at the gym trying not to make eye contact with the ripped gentleman, loudly grunting, as he lifts weights bigger than most of our heads, you might want to consider joining him.

Muscle strengthening exercises are not only great for improving fitness but they also provide a nice variation from regular cardio workouts. Weight-lifting is great but, if you’re not ready to venture to that section of the gym, resistance bands, pilates and yoga are great alternatives.