Whether your body goals focus more on your health or your comfort level, priorities can definitely change when your mind turns to pregnancy. Staying fit can have major benefits when it comes to those precious nine months, but what if staying fit is also your job? Victoria’s Secret models experience most of the same pregnancy-related routines as the rest of us, with a few adjustments here and there that are definitely of interest to any lady wanting to tackle baby-making (and with one heck of a body-positive attitude).
Talking to Elite Daily, celebrity trainer Leandro Carvalho, who worked with a pregnant Alessandra Ambrosio, gave the inside scoop on what a Victoria’s Secret model goes through when she’s thinking about becoming a mom.
Things begin before a fetus is ever formed. “By planning a pregnancy, women are able to start their exercise regimes and clean and healthy eating habits before becoming pregnant. By starting the pregnancy at a desired weight (or even a few pounds lighter) with healthier eating habits and continuing this routine through pregnancy, getting back to that pre-baby body after delivery will be much easier.”
Then, when the baby finally starts to make its journey from sperm to newborn, the mama-to-be will be movin’ and groovin’. “The first four to six weeks of training consist of pure cardio involving dance, swimming and cardio sculpt. After six weeks of cardio, the fitness routine should change to interval training: 20 minutes of cardio, followed by muscle work of 16 to 20 reps light weightlifting, then switching back and forth between cardio and weightlifting for the duration of the workout.”
And what will she be eating (for two)? “Smart, healthy choices. For example, making sure she ate all kinds of vegetables (all colors), white protein (like fish, chicken, egg whites and turkey) and a controlled portion of good carbs (such as brown rice, quinoa and whole wheat bread).” Still craving something a little more? Try adding “lemon shots and ginger tea to alkalize and cleanse the body, getting rid of inflammation and promoting weight loss. I wouldn’t recommend restricting calories because doing so can affect the quality and quantity of milk production, which is critical to the baby’s health.”
Once the little one makes their appearance in the big, wide world, mom will be busy cuddling, nursing and changing diapers, and for exercise, “moms should start with a leisurely walking routine, and after a doctor’s medical clearance [they should] begin water exercises. Working up to light physical activity, new mothers should incorporate light weightlifting and mild cardio (with respect to the limitations of postpartum), eventually reaching their pre-baby fitness routines. Alessandra, for example, had many limitations after undergoing a C-section during childbirth: no jumping, running, sit-ups or squats. This is an instance when water classes are a must!”
Remember, do what’s best for you and your baby, and everything should turn out wonderfully!
Is/was staying fit important to you during pregnancy? Tweet us @BritandCo!
