My spouse and I are equally ecstatic about our recent discovery that we are expecting a child. All I am concerned about is how it will impact my weight. I worry that I will gain even more weight while pregnant because I am currently heavy than what is healthy (320 pounds at 5 feet 3 inches). I worry that by the time my pregnancy is finished, I will be closer to 350 pounds or so because I am fairly unfit (I probably could not run 100 meters if you told me too) and have terrible willpower.
Are there any enjoyable sports or games you can play when expecting? Preferably none that involve a lot of running around. Since I dislike going to the gym, I would rather find other ways to exercise.
Congratulations on your pregnancy! Consider swimming, prenatal yoga, or gentle dance classes for enjoyable, low-impact activities. These can help manage weight and keep you fit without heavy exertion.
Speak to your doctor first. Since you’re at a higher risk of getting hurt while exercising due to your weight, I suggest starting with walking. Begin with a few minutes a day, at a comfortable pace, and gradually increase the time as you can. Try to walk for 5-10 minutes before and after meals to get more steps in. Keep it simple as you build the habit.
Remember, exercise only accounts for 5-15% of weight loss. If your doctor approves weight loss during pregnancy, focus more on your diet than exercise.
For motivation, think about how eating healthier now benefits both you and your baby! This is a great time to develop better eating habits, like choosing more whole foods and less processed foods. Eat less sugar and starch. Build healthy habits that you can pass on to your child.