I'm 41, fat, just started running and now pregnant - advice please!

[LuckyWeKeptTheCot]

I gained an extra stone for each of 3 children and never lost the last one before the next pregnancy so am now 3 stone overweight (nearly 13 stone and 5'5'') I was really fed up and have just bought decent running shoes and gone out for a run - taking it easy at first but even after 3 I could feel my breathing was better etc. Have only been running 3 times. Hate my fat tummy and was really positive and pleased I was feeling so motivated this time. Then realised period was late and did test this morning. Looks like no. 4 is on the way. I'm 41 - no other known health problems except needing to shift stubborn baby weight. Feel really annoyed I wasn't fitter and slimmer before this pregnancy. BUT - is all lost?! How can I take better care of my weight/fitness during this pregnancy and since I am already overweight and not very fit, what exercise would be good to do? Thanks!

I guess you're all out running!

Anyone around? REally keen not to let it all get worse this time and would like to exercise. But starting from being unfit and overweight so not routine to maintain/adapt. What do you suggest - can I gain fitness at the same time - tone arms etc? Help!

Walking is actually almost as good as running IMO but no impact. If you can squeeze bits of extra walking in and try to go slightly faster than normal so you are maybe a little hot and bothered and your breathing is increased.

Upper body, I would have to suggest someone else advises but would simple weight exercises for upper body be OK? Even sitting down with a couple of cans of beans or the like?

There must be exercise in Pregnancy DVD's? Swimming seems obvious but to me it is always hard to fit in.

Congratulations by the way

plenty of people carry on running during pregnancy ... I have no experience as only started running fairly recently, but there are people on the runners united thread who could offer advice....

i would personally stick with it very gently - make sure you tell your midwife you are running too once you have your booking in appt... and jut be prepared to rest and take it easy from time to time - go by how you are feeling....

Congratulations and Good luck!