1st Trimester Do's and Don'ts: Navigating the Early Weeks with Confidence

Kritie Alicea • May 7, 2025

Hey mama, welcome to the beginning of something incredible.


Whether you're feeling over-the-moon excited, completely overwhelmed, or a mix of both (totally normal, by the way), we’re so glad you’re here. The first trimester is a wild ride full of big changes, tiny miracles, and a lot of questions. If you’re already Googling everything from "can I eat sushi?" to "why am I so tired?", you are definitely not alone.


At ABC Fit Collective, we believe every pregnancy journey deserves support, compassion, and expert guidance. That’s why we’ve created this list of 1st trimester do’s and don’ts to help you feel more informed, empowered, and cared for as you take your first steps into motherhood.



Let’s keep it simple, real, and most of all—judgment-free. 💛

DO: Give Yourself Permission to Rest

Growing a human is hard work—like, full-time, round-the-clock, superhero-level effort. If you're feeling more exhausted than ever, that's completely normal.

  • Take naps when you can (yes, even at 7 p.m.!)
  • Let go of the pressure to keep up your usual pace
  • Listen to your body; it knows what it needs

DON'T: Push Through Fatigue Like It’s a Badge of Honor

There’s nothing noble about burning out, especially when your body is doing some of its most important behind-the-scenes work.

  • Fatigue is your body’s way of asking for a pause
  • You’re not being lazy—you’re building life
  • Honor that need for rest without guilt

DO: Start or Continue Safe, Gentle Movement

If you're feeling up to it, movement can help ease nausea, boost energy, and support your mental health.

  • Go for walks, stretch, or try a prenatal yoga class
  • ABC Fit Virtual Gym has trimester-specific workouts that are safe, short, and feel-good
  • Focus on how movement makes you feel, not how it makes you look

DON'T: Assume All Exercise Is Off-Limits

Unless your doctor says otherwise, many forms of exercise are not only safe during pregnancy; they’re beneficial.

  • Avoid high-risk activities (like contact sports or anything with a fall risk)
  • Modify movements to fit your changing body
  • When in doubt, ask a pre/postnatal certified trainer (we know a few 😉)

DO: Focus on Key Nutrients

Your baby’s brain, spine, and organs are developing rapidly in the first trimester. The right nutrients make a big difference.

  • Prioritize folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA
  • Stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals if you’re nauseous
  • Don’t stress about the perfect diet—do your best and supplement where needed -- Check out our recent blog for more info.

DON'T: Panic If You Can’t Eat Perfectly

Food aversions? Morning sickness? We hear you.

  • It’s okay if your meals aren’t Instagram-worthy
  • Some days you’ll crave kale, some days it’s crackers—and both are valid
  • Nourishment looks different for everyone

The Bottom Line: You're Already Doing Great

The first trimester can feel like a fog of fatigue, nausea, and uncertainty—but it’s also a time of deep transformation. Trust your body. Trust the process. And know that you don’t have to figure it all out alone.


At ABC Fit Collective, we’re here to support your journey with safe, expert-led workouts, real-talk education, and a community of mamas who truly get it.

If you’re ready for guidance, gentle movement, and a space to just be during this season, join us inside the ABC Fit Virtual Gym.


You’ve got this—and we’ve got you.

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