How Victoria's Secret Models Stay Fit While Pregnant

Maintaining a Victoria's Secret model's body is hard work and it's especially tough to do while pregnant. While it can be done—and here's how—should it be?

By Zara Hanawalt

Published on February 5, 2019

super model moms — Photo: S_bukley/Shutterstock

Being a Victoria's Secret model is a never-ending task—and sadly, it doesn't stop when you're pregnant.

While these glam gals are clearly genetically blessed and have the time (and resources) required to work out like it's their job (which, ya know, it sort of is), they follow strict regimens, even while expecting, which might just make you glad (for once) not to have to strut a mile in their shoes. With the mom models like Gisele Bündchen, Candice Swanepoel and Behati Prinsloo still constantly hitting the runway, you might be curious about their pregnancy fitness routine, and, well, the secret is out.

Here are their biggest tips...

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Step #1: They plan for it

The Victoria's Secret models' fit pregnancy routine starts early—really early, as they are advised to hit their goal weights before getting pregnant, according to Elite Daily. This means that even the timing of pregnancy needs to be carefully planned.

Leandro Carvalho, a celebrity trainer who worked with Alessandra Ambrosio through her pregnancy, shared a few secrets to his clients' success.

"By planning a pregnancy, women are able to start their exercise regimes and clean and healthy eating habits before becoming pregnant," he said. "By starting the pregnancy at a desired weight—or even a few pounds lighter—with healthier eating habits and continuing this routine through pregnancy, getting back to that pre-baby body after delivery will be much easier."

Step #2: They follow a routine to the letter

Carvalho has some very specific fitness advice as well.

"The first four to six weeks of training consist of pure cardio, involving dance, swimming and cardio sculpt. After six weeks of cardio, the fitness routine should change to interval training: 20 minutes of cardio, followed by muscle work of 16 to 20 reps light weightlifting, then switching back and forth between cardio and weightlifting for the duration of the workout," he said. Carvalho also suggests water workouts, as a growing belly can make physical activity on land tough.

Step #3: They don't count calories

Here's what Carvalho told Ambrosio to do after baby. Spoiler alert: Calorie restriction was not on the menu.

"All of my advice to her was simply about making smart, healthy choices. For example, making sure she ate all kinds of vegetables—all colors, white protein—like fish, chicken, egg whites and turkey, and a controlled portion of good carbs—such as brown rice, quinoa and whole wheat bread. I also recommended lemon shots and ginger tea to alkalize and cleanse the body, getting rid of inflammation and promoting weight loss. I wouldn't recommend restricting calories because doing so can affect the quality and quantity of milk production, which is critical to the baby's health," he said.

Here's what Carvalho recommends to jump-start weight loss after giving birth:

"New moms should start with a leisurely walking routine, and after a doctor's medical clearance [they should] begin water exercises. Working up to light physical activity, new mothers should incorporate light weightlifting and mild cardio—with respect to the limitations of postpartum, eventually reaching their pre-baby fitness routines," he said.

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