Question: I am currently trying for a baby, I workout three times a week at work.  I run quite fast setting off at 12 for 25 minutes then gradient work (uphill) for 5 minutes, then about 100 sit ups.  At what point should I reduce this, and to what? I am concerned in case I fall or slip slightly. Hope you can help me with some advice Kind regards Helen   Answer:   Dear Helen,   Overall, there is no reason why you should not continue to run whilst trying for a baby or indeed once you fall pregnant. Certain modifications to your usual running programme should be made as you are on the whole running for well-being and fitness, as opposed to weight-loss or competitive training:   Initially I would suggest that you reduce the distance of your runs by about 50%. This will allow you to assess your body’s response to training. It would also be advisable to reduce the frequency of your runs for the same reason. Monitoring your heart rate during and after your run is a useful way of checking how you body is coping with the activity. In addition to the increased caloric needs of regular running, an additional 300 calories per day are required to meet the metabolic needs of pregnancy, so make sure you incorporate this into your diet. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids as the risk of dehydration is increased during exercise whilst pregnant. Never train to the point where you are short of breath or sweating profusely. Wear a comfortable “stability” running shoe as your ligaments and joints will require more support as your pregnancy advances. Wear a good supportive sports bra. Most importantly stop training if you experience pain, dizziness or nausea and consult you doctor as soon as possible. Avoid doing sit ups as a means of abdominal strengthening and switch to some core stability exercises or Pilates.    Kind regards   Angela Benjamin