As I wrap up the second trimester, I wanted to share a little update on how I’ve been feeling, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Time is flying by, and reflecting on these past few months has made me realize what’s worked, what surprised me, and what I might do differently if I could start over
How I Feel
Physically: I feel good! Some days I have major energy crashes, but overall my body feels strong and I’m back into a consistent workout routine.
I’ve noticed how important good quality sleep is, when I have a bad night’s sleep, I feel dysfunctional in ways I never did pre-pregnancy. Pregnancy insomnia is real, some nights I just toss and turn and have to pee five times!
Mentally: I’m feeling quite overwhelmed with the workload I have before the baby arrives, especially with all the filming and content I need to bank in advance. But I’m getting there (I can’t leave you hanging!).
I really haven’t prepared much yet, I don’t know the gender, I haven’t picked a name, and I haven’t started buying anything, so I do feel a bit behind.
The baby is so active! Sometimes I still forget I’m pregnant, and then I catch my reflection in the mirror or feel the baby moving and I’m reminded, “I’m growing a human!” My side profile makes me laugh, it’s so funny to see.
I miss doing my usual workouts! If I go to a group class and modify, I’m kind of jealous of the girls doing their core work (LOL!). I also look forward to the day I can sweat in a sauna again.
Eating & Wellness
My appetite fluctuates, but no more than it did before pregnancy. Eating small meals works better for me, big meals make me feel even more bloated. My hair and nails are growing faster than before, likely thanks to the supplements, collagen, and protein I’m taking.
I know these last few months are going to fly by, so my next goal is to focus on being present and making the most out of this time before the baby comes.
Workout Modifications I’ve Been Doing
Here’s what I’ve been doing to stay active and safe, some moves you might recognize from my usual routine, but with pregnancy-friendly tweaks!
Modified Plank
Why: Takes pressure off your linea alba as your bump grows, helping prevent coning and diastasis.
Glute Bridges
Why: Safe for pregnancy, but avoid lifting too high to prevent straining your lower back.
Deep Core Work
Why: Inner thigh and deep core exercises can place too much tension on the pelvic floor as relaxin increases. Gentle, supported variations strengthen safely.
Side Plank (Modified: Bottom Knee Down)
Why: A full side plank can place extra demand on shoulders, obliques, and pelvic floor. Dropping the bottom knee reduces strain.
Advice I’d Give Myself if I Was Back in My First Trimester
- Stop feeling guilty! Rest is productive, you’re doing a really important job. Do what you can; everything else can wait.
- Don’t stress about every little thing. In a few months, those worries won’t matter. I wonder how people survived before the internet or ChatGPT!?
- Don’t waste time shopping for new outfits just yet, you have no idea how much you’ll actually grow.
- Take gentle walks even when you think you can’t, you can, and fresh air always helps.
- Use bed time to read pregnancy books instead of doom scrolling or binge-watching TV (though that’s fine too).
- Talk to close friends who are pregnant or recently had babies, they have the best and most straightforward advice.
- You WILL feel better soon, don’t worry, it’s not forever!
I’ve already forgotten how bad I felt in the first trimester, it comes and goes. It’s the slowest, yet quickest.
Looking Ahead
The last few months are flying by, and my next goal is to stay present and enjoy this time before the baby arrives.
Stay tuned! Our January program is coming soon, starting fresh for the new year. It will include a prenatal / beginner level as well, perfect for expecting mamas or those new to Pilates.
Lots of love,
Tasha xxx