7-month pregnant Crystal Palace star joins pre-season training

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Crystal Palace Women midfielder Justine Vanhaevermaet has drawn praise after taking part in pre-season training despite being seven months pregnant.

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The 34-year-old Belgium international was pictured training alongside her teammates as the south London club stepped up preparations for the new Women’s Super League (WSL) season.

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Vanhaevermaet, who joined Crystal Palace last summer and helped the club secure an immediate return to the WSL, is expecting her first child in September with her fiancé, physiotherapist Thomas De Jonghe.

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Sharing photos of the midfielder during training, Crystal Palace celebrated her commitment in a post on X.

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“Seven months pregnant and still putting the work in,” the club wrote.

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The midfielder also impressed fans by showing off her ball-juggling skills during the training session.

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Vanhaevermaet will not be the only new mother in the Crystal Palace squad this season. Teammate and Wales international Josie Green recently welcomed a baby daughter with her partner, Marcus Gan.

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The Belgian’s training sessions have sparked admiration on social media, although experts note that exercising during pregnancy should be done within recommended medical guidelines.

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According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), pregnant women are encouraged to remain physically active for as long as they feel comfortable.

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“Keep up your normal daily physical activity or exercise for as long as you feel comfortable.”

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The NHS also states, “Exercise is not dangerous for your baby. There is evidence that active women are less likely to experience problems in later pregnancy and labour.”

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It advises pregnant women not to overexert themselves and to slow down as their pregnancy progresses or if advised by their maternity team.

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“Do not exhaust yourself. You may need to slow down as your pregnancy progresses or if your maternity team advises you to. If in doubt, consult your maternity team.”

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The guidance further notes:

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“As a general rule, you should be able to hold a conversation as you exercise when pregnant. If you become breathless as you talk, then you’re probably exercising too strenuously.”

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While physical activity is generally encouraged during pregnancy, football carries additional risks, including falls or accidental contact with the ball, as changes in balance and looser joints can increase the likelihood of injury.

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