The start of a new year always brings out a host of New Year's Resolutions relating to Health and Fitness.  Lose 10kgs, exercise more, eat less, stress less - we've all been there before, starting in earnest with maybe a couple of weeks sticking to the plan and then losing our mojo and resolutions become modified, or worse still a distant memory!  10kg's becomes 'just a...
When you're pregnant what can you do to keep yourself comfortable when travelling? Before you plan a long trip, talk to your LMC. Whether travelling long journeys by car, boat, train or plane often the ideal time is in your second trimester. Any form of motion can aggravate morning sickness and as this can be particularly bad during the first trimester waiting until the second trimester m...
Our friends at Tommee Tippee have shared some advice on how to choose a comforter... Step 1 – Safety and Hygiene Select a trusted, proven and reliable brand, BPA Free The shield must be comfortable, not cover the baby’s nose and not too large for the Baby’s face. The comforter must have a cover and be able to be sterilised, boiled and be dishwasher safe  Step 2 –...
Some women are champing at the bit to get back to their pre pregnancy shape as soon as possible after giving birth. It doesn’t help that we see images of the Hollywood Celebrities back into their glamazon size zero clothes in a matter of weeks after having babies! The reality is, it took nine months to put the weight on in the first place, it will more than likely take that long to get it...
Whilst many of us want to get into shape, when it comes down to actually working out sometimes it is more than motivation that is the problem. The gym is too far away, a gym membership too expensive, I don’t have enough time...the list is endless. If you don’t prioritise exercise here is the solution to those excuses! Two workouts that can be done in the privacy of your own home, at an...
For those expectant mums who have been exercising prior to pregnancy, there's no reason why you can’t maintain your level of fitness during the early stages of your pregnancy. There are a few modifications that will be required (see our Exercise Guidelines in Pregnancy article) and depending on energy and nausea levels your frequency and intensity of exercise may need to be adjusted al...
Exercise classes – what are they, what do they offer and more importantly what results can I expect? Along with the number of exercise facilities on the rise, we now have a plethora of Group Fitness Classes on offer. From Body Jam, to Sh’bam, to Zumba .. the list is long and the names imply that one needs to own a leotard and pair of leg warmers to participate. Not to mention the nee...
Weight management and disease prevention are the top two reasons why people a) embark on an exercise routine and b) try to keep with it. Aside from these obvious motivators, there are wider benefits to regular physical activity.   Here are a few: The feel good factor of exercise is well documented.  Some GP’s are actually prescribing exercise as part of a treatment plan fo...
The many benefits of regular exercise during pregnancy are well documented for both mother and unborn child.  Research studies1 have shown that women who exercise through pregnancy: Have reduced weight gain during pregnancy Have fewer pregnancy discomforts Sleep better Have increased energy levels Have an increased capacity to cope with the physical demands of labour and del...
Once you have made the commitment to start working out, you may decide that the next step is finding a gym.  As most gym facilities require you to sign up for a minimum contractual period, choosing the right gym for you and your needs is essential to achieving your health and fitness goals.  After all you don’t want to end up paying for an unused gym membership that you are locke...