Keep Movin' in the New Year

In the last few years, I've gotten in the habit of making resolutions every New Year's Day. I'm not sure why I started doing this; pre-planning definitely ain't genetic in my family! My resolutions are simple this year, but only one pertains to baby-in-belly.

I am resolved to exercising 5 times a week, even if that means just walking for 30 minutes. My workout schedule of late has diminished to just a few walks a week. Mainly, I'm just sleepy, and my motivation to move beyond what is necessary is low.

Before I was pregnant, I ran about 2.5 miles 4-5 times a week including a 20-minute cardio/strength-training thing afterwards. Though I know it's probably safe to keep running (at least, that's what most magazines say), I worry that pounding the pavement will hurt the baby. If you've ever tried running while trying to protect an area (landing gently on one foot because it's sore, for example), you know how quickly your awkward run can make other joints sore. I know women who ran far into their pregnancies and were on training machines the week before their deliveries, but that isn't me.

So, walking is the name of the game. Telling some moms-to-be (hereafter referred to as MTBs), "Exercise will make your delivery so much easier," "It will help with your energy level," and "Think of how much easier it will be for you to get back into your pre-pregnancy size!" is enough to keep them on the walking path. That's not going to work for me. The only way I can make it through is 100% Guilt: "Think of how much better it is for the baby. You don't want what's best for the baby, don't you?" Yes, of course, of course! I can be a good mom, Conscience, just give me another chance!

Time to turn in my piggy slippers and find my Brooks running shoes.