Exercise during Pregnancy

While many women are overjoyed with the idea of becoming a mom, they aren’t so happy about the changes their bodies will go through. Pregnancy is a great time for exercise. If you haven’t been regularly exercising, here’s your chance. Moderate physical activity can be very beneficial during the pregnancy and after the pregnancy.

BENEFITS OF PREGNANCY EXERCISE

  • More energy. Pregnancy can leave women feeling less energetic during the day. Exercise will give you more endurance and the stronger muscles will make the tasks at hand easier to handle.

  • Less aches and pains. Exercise during pregnancy will increase muscle strength and provide you with better flexibility, minimizing backaches. Exercising also improves circulation which helps minimize other problems such as varicose veins, leg cramps, ankle swelling and constipation.

  • Feel more rested. Getting a good night’s sleep becomes difficult during pregnancy, especially towards the end. Exercise during pregnancy will help you sleep more soundly through the night.

  • Better moods. Exercise can help give you a great ego boost. When you feel good about yourself, you are less likely to go through drastic mood swings.

  • Weight control. Gaining weight during pregnancy is normal, but gaining too much can make it harder to lose it afterwards. Exercise during pregnancy will control your weight gain, making it easier for you to lose the unwanted baby fat that remains post-pregnancy.

  • Ease labor pains. Exercise does not guarantee a pain-free delivery, but strong muscles and a strong heart will help you endure labor a little more easily.

HOW TO BEGIN

Check with your doctor before you begin exercise during pregnancy. You may have a medical condition that could cause you and the baby injury. If you get a clean bill of health, then start exercising at a low level of intensity. Avoid strenuous exercise that may cause you any pain, dizziness, shortness of breath or a great deal of fatigue. Always monitor your heart rate and breathing. Stop exercising if you are overexerting yourself. You don’t want to risk your health or the health of the baby.

RECOMMENDED EXERCISES

  • Walking. Go for a mile walk three to four times a week. Start out slow and then vary the pace as your body becomes conditioned to the routine.

  • Swimming. Taking a dip in the pool allows you to work out without putting strain on your body. The buoyancy makes exercise more enjoyable and easier on you. Try swimming laps or focus on forms of water aerobics.

  • Dancing. This is a fantastic way to get an awesome cardio workout and it’s fun!

WHAT TO AVOID

Be sure to avoid exercises that require:

  • Bouncing
  • Leaping
  • Abdominal usage
  • Excessive shaking
  • Working out in hot weather

The bigger you get during pregnancy, the more your center of gravity shifts. Strenuous exercise could cause a fall, resulting in injury to you and the baby. You don’t need to overdo it in order to stay fit. Slowing down towards the end of your pregnancy will make it easier on your body.

OTHER TIPS TO REMEMBER

  • Avoid overstretching
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Do no hold your breath when exercising
  • Focus only on the muscles you are exercising

Always remember to listen to your body and seek a doctor’s attention if you begin to suffer from symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headaches and abdominal pain. Let exercise during pregnancy help you build stamina for the role of motherhood. Use pregnancy to your advantage and do something good for yourself and the baby.


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