It’s a new year and many people set fitness and health as a new year resolution, but is that safe if you are pregnant? Overall, exercise is most definitely safe during pregnancy. As long as it is comfortable and there are no health conditions suggesting otherwise, your healthcare provider will most likely tell you to continue your regular exercise routine.
What are the benefits of exercise during pregnancy?
Regular activity during pregnancy helps you keep fit during the pregnancy and may improve your ability to cope with labor. Furthermore, it will make it easier for you to get back in shape after you give birth. Other benefits of exercise during pregnancy include:
- Helps reduce backaches, constipation, bloating, and swelling
- May help, prevent, or treat gestational diabetes
- Increase your energy
- Improves mood
- Improves posture
- Helps you sleep better
What types of activity are suggested during pregnancy?
If you participated in regular exercise activity prior to your pregnancy, it is probably fine for you to continue the same activity during your pregnancy. However, exercising during pregnancy should not be motivated by weight loss and you should not try to increase the rigor of your exercise during pregnancy.
The safest and most productive activities include swimming, walking, indoor stationary cycling, step or elliptical machines, and low-impact aerobics. As a general rule, pregnant women should stay away from activities that require holding your breath, contact sports, activities where falling is likely, and activities that require extensive jumping or bouncing.
Basic Exercise Guidelines
- Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes as well as a good support bra
- Choose shoes that are designed for the type of exercise that you do to prevent injury
- Exercise on a flat, level surface
- Consume enough calories to support the needs of your pregnancy and your exercise
- Finish eating at least one hour before exercising
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout
- Never exercise to the point of exhaustion
Although it is most likely safe for you to continue your exercise routine during pregnancy, you should still consult with your healthcare provider. If you are expecting or plan on expecting and are in need of a healthcare provider, contact us today at (615) 690-6600.