Shift the Focus

SHIFT THE FOCUS
AND BE ACTIVE, MAMA

"Pregnancy is exhausting,
I'm too tired to move"
It's important not to over-do it and listen to
your body.
Any active movement counts to improve
fitness and stamina, even stretching.
1
2
"I'm not sure what will be comfortable or
safe for me and my baby"
There are plenty of safe physical activitiescheck
out our "staying active during
pregnancy resource booklet," call Green
Prescription or talk to your midwife if you're
not sure.

"I haven't got time, I'm so busy!"
3
Break activity in to smaller chunks which
can be more manageable.
10 minutes, 3 times a day makes up the
recommended 30 minutes physical activity
per day.

"I don't want to do it by myself."
4
Ask your partner, a friend or family
member to commit to a regular time of
doing some activity with you to
motivate you both into healthy habits.

"If I'm already gaining weight, there's
no point"
This is not about weight or size, it's about
building stamina for labour and reducing
complications for you and baby.
This will set you up for recovery and
beyond.
5
"I feel self-conscious"
6
Think about the great start to life you are
giving your baby by building this healthy
habit into your daily life.
Not just for now, but for yours and baby's
future.

"It's awkward going to a gym by myself"
7
There are lots of non-gym and non-class
activities you can do.
Check out the Green Prescription
"staying active during pregnancy"
resource booklet.

8
"What if I get out of breath, is that
dangerous?"
Exercise at a pace that you can still have
a conversation. If you struggle to
breathe, feel faint or light-headed, STOP
and seek immediate help.

"I need to save money for baby coming
and classes plus equipment is expensive."
There are plenty of free options,
check out the Green Prescription
"staying active during pregnancy"
resource book, or even take a walk with
a friend.
9

"I haven't got the right clothes"
10
You don't need activewear or labelled
clothes, anything you can comfortably
and safely move your body in is fine to use.

11
"I have other kids,
it's really hard to fit it all in"
Include the kids; whether it's stretching
at home in the lounge, walking to the
park or doing something with a friend
while the kids play- you are being an
amazing role model for your whānau.

12
"Everything feels sore and loose,
what if I injure myself?"
Be gentle and listen to your body.
Stop straight away if there is pain.
Follow recommended exercise
and activity guidelines.