New data reveals that Google searches for ‘pregnant workout’ routines rose by 5,100 per cent in the UK whilst Rihanna performed at the Super Bowl LVII half-time show.
The findings, pulled together by fitness experts Total Shape, found that searches around pregnancy and exercise steadily climbed as Rihanna took to the stage amidst speculation that she’s pregnant with her second child – which her rep then confirmed shortly afterwards.
Fans took to twitter to commend Rihanna for the dance moves that she pulled off whilst pregnant – with many expecting mothers seemingly inspired to improve their own fitness.
Searches for ‘pregnant workout’ rose by 5,100% during the performance, and then climbed again after Rihanna’s rep confirmed her second pregnancy after the show concluded.
Google searches for ‘pregnant exercises’ also saw a 1,900 per cent increase during the half-time show, as well as ‘abdominal exercise’ (up 2,400 per cent) and ‘pregnant gym’ (up 7,000 per cent).
Interest is also high on Twitter, with 252 tweets mentioning ‘pregnant exercise’ recorded since Rihanna’s performance yesterday, as well as 142 mentions of ‘pregnancy exercise’, and 60 mentions of ‘pregnancy workout’.
With Brits are clearly keen to emulate Rihanna and workout whilst pregnant, Total Shape have provided expert advice on how to do so safely, and which exercises to avoid.
They said: “Exercising when pregnant can be great for active women, as it can help to reduce backaches and swelling, boost your energy levels, and prevent excessive weight gain as your body changes to accommodate your little one.
“However, it’s important that you don’t overexert yourself – if you’re not a regular exerciser, avoid suddenly taking up strenuous activities. Workouts don’t have to be intense or demanding to be beneficial. In fact, some of the best activities for expectant mothers include swimming, as the water works to support your weight, and long walks.
“Make sure to warm up before working out and cool down afterwards, and drink plenty of water throughout. Avoid any activities that have a risk of falling, such as gymnastics and cycling. Also, don’t lie on your back for extended periods of time when working out as this can cause you to feel faint – make sure to take breaks if you start to feel woozy.”
The best workouts for pregnant women are as follows:
Swimming – Swimming is recommended throughout pregnancy, but is particularly helpful for growing bumps as the water works to support extra weight. Make sure you’re careful when walking on slippery surfaces and don’t dive in the water.
Walking – Going on a long walk is ideal as a pregnancy workout as it fits into any schedule and is low-impact. Avoid being outside for too long during hot weather, and make sure you drink plenty of water and other fluids whilst out and about.
Low-Impact Aerobics – Low-impact aerobics can help to increase your heart rate and get endorphins flowing without intense exertion. Avoid jumping or high-impact movements, and consider opting for water aerobics as a more relaxing alternative.
Data gathered from Google Trends, and can be accessed here
