Pregnancy and Exercise
By Contributing Editor, Cherie Brunetti
It may be the last thing that you feel like doing but exercising during your pregnancy is beneficial to both you and your baby. Talk with your doctor about your current exercise routine or if you would like to begin a new program.
Exercising during your pregnancy will help you feel better.
- It will help boost your energy levels
- It can relieve back pain
- It can strengthen your joints and help with joint pain
- It can help relieve stress and anxiety
- It can help you sleep better at night
Exercising throughout your pregnancy will help you to prepare your body for labor and delivery. Increased enduring and muscle strength will help greatly during delivery.
Exercising before will help you get back into shape more quickly after the baby is born. It will be easier for you to gain the proper amount of weight if you exercise during your pregnancy. Being in shape and having an exercise routine already in place will help you to regain your pre-pregnancy body.
If you had an exercise routine before you got pregnant, talk with your doctor about continuing your current routine. If you did not exercise regularly before your pregnancy, begin exercising lightly and slowly. It is possible that you may have to limit your exercise if you have high blood pressure, vaginal bleeding, or early contractions.
When exercising, aim for a combination of stretching, cardio, and strength training. Do not engage in contact sports, skiing, scuba diving, or horseback riding. After the first trimester, avoid exercises that require you lie on your back. Walking and swimming are both excellent exercising during pregnancy.
No matter what type of exercise you choose, always listen to your body. You body may be telling your to take a break if you become dizzy, have trouble breathing, have pain in your back, or if you feel overly tired. As your belly grows, your center of gravity will seem to change on a daily basis. Be careful about maintaining your balance, especially during the last few months. If you have any concerns or questions regarding exercising during pregnancy, be sure to talk with your doctor.
