I’m so pleased I was able to keep active up until my due date as it’s allowed me to get back to my usual self far quicker than I first thought. Ok so I wouldn’t say we are at a flat tummy yet. Of course not. I just had a baby 8 weeks ago after all, but I’m feeling good and that’s all that really matters right now.

If possible – and I know it’s not possible for everyone – I really would encourage all pregnant women to try and do something to keep themselves fit and healthy for as long as possible. Even if you can’t face the gym (and I do appreciate you get some funny looks working out whilst massively pregnant) there are plenty of things that you can do to stay active and healthy such as swimming, walking, dancing or yoga.

Swimming was great for me and even on the day of my due date I was doing 40 lengths. I just adore the water and I guess that’s why I wanted a water birth. Funnily enough Amelia loves the water too, so she must take after her mummy. We’re off to water babies in two weeks time and I can’t wait to see her little face when she gets in the pool for the first time.

Another thing I loved when pregnant was prenatal yoga. I did a course of yoga for pregnant ladies with Charlotte of MamaBabyBliss in Oxfordshire. It was great because, not only was it a good place to stretch and practice some relaxing yoga, it also allowed me to meet other new mums. Having classes that are solely dedicated to soon to be mums or new mums are ideal as you are all in the same boat and most importantly you don’t feel self-conscious about your rapidly changing body. I know she is starting a postnatal course too, where mums can take their babies along, so I look forward to that too. Again after pregnancy many mums are going to be worried about their figure and how their bodies have changed. Being in a class of new mums means everyone can feel that little bit more at ease and no one needs to secure childcare as the babies can join in too.

I also attended Zumba right up to the birth of Amelia. If you haven’t already read my blogs raving about Zumba4Bump then please do. It’s such a fab class and somehow makes even a bumbling pregnant lady feel somewhat sexy and wonderful.

And finally walking, I walked and walked and walked in the final days up to my due date. Anything to get things moving. And now I walk just as much to soothe Amelia whilst she is in the pram, so it was definitely good practice! Ultimately walking is low intensity and easy to do anywhere so it’s definitely at the top of my list for a free and simple exercise anyone can do.

So come on ladies. Whether you are expecting or have recently given birth. Do something for YOU too and look after your body. After all the healthier you are, the better you will be able to take care of baby.