This is really a great guide to keeping fit for moms to be. I know I've been really tired due to my pregnancy, but there wasn't anything in here I couldn't do. I would defintely recommend this to anyone who wants to stay in shape durning pregnancy. Another pregnancy book I quite liked and would also recommend is "You Know You're Pregnant When...Reflections".

I got an awful lot out of this book.

I didn't want to turn into a slob during pregnancy but wanted to be as fit as I could for the labour. However, I found it quite hard to get consistent advice. This books is broken down into the three trimesters (and a little bit on after the birth) and gives you simple straight forward advice for each. It gives you programmes to follow on aerobic, strength and flexibility. It also has little sections on common complaints and what you can do to help yourself (eg, morning sickness, back problems, piles etc).

It has a no nonsense/non-patronising approach but isn't prescriptive. It also doesn't put you on a huge guilt trip if, for example, you've done nothing but lie in a heap for the first trimester. It treats you like an adult too which is nice when so many books talk to you like you're a dimwit who has lost all common sense since becoming pregnant.

This is an American book but I really don't think that matters too much. You'll understand most of the reference and I think we're all able to cope with the difference between say metres and yards.

Anyway, I really rate this book and have used it probably the most out of all my books. It's not just for exercise it's a really good guide to looking after yourself and getting fit for childbirth both if you're an exercise agnostic or a devoted gym bunny.

I have found it really difficult to get any proper advice on what exercises you can and can't do during pregnancy (eg can you keep doing abdominal exercises? I get different answers from everyone I ask), so this book was a real find for me. It provides trimester by trimester advice on what to do to keep your muscle tone, strenth and flexibility (and the benefits of doing so). This includes assessment of classes/gym/swimming etc, as well as exercises you can do at home. It is easy to read/understand and also provides useful information on nutrition, health and relaxation. For me who exercised regularly before pregnancy is is a great source of information, but it also focuses on those who haven't previously done any exercise, but do want to keep fit during their pregnancy.