Posted on April 15, 2009 - by Marie

Exercise during pregnancy

When a woman gets pregnant everyone wants to tell her to take it easy. She needs to get her rest and stay off of her feet. Out of control hormones during pregnancy may make a woman feel like she wants to sleep and eat all the time, but we know that too much of those things isn’t good for anyone.

No one wants to hear about exercise when they are pregnant. It’s time to sit down, not jump around. But, exercise during pregnancy is good for both mother and baby. You don’t have to go at it hard and heavy to get the most out of your workouts. Only you know your particular medical history, so check with your doctor before taking up any activity during pregnancy.

If you were working out before you got pregnant, you are in a good position to keep going. There won’t be the soreness stage since you are no stranger to exercise. Your doctor may ask you to turn down the intensity since baby is now on board.

One benefit of exercise is to lessen those pregnancy symptoms. Walking is a great exercise that anyone can do. Walking increases cardiovascular health to ease those swollen ankles and sore back.

Exercise helps you to sleep more soundly too. This is true even if you aren’t pregnant. After an exercise session, the body relaxes much better. The muscles are limber and you peacefully float off to dreamland.

Don’t use pregnancy as a vacation:

What types of exercise should you engage in now that you’re expecting? Well, we already touched on the benefits of walking and how it helps to lessen pregnancy symptoms. Another good activity is swimming. Even during the winter, YMCA’s and gyms have heated indoor pools so you can continue your laps.

Water has the effect of making us feel weightless. No matter how heavy you are while carrying baby, you can glide through the water and get a good workout. There is no jarring or bouncing to agitate the baby. Swimming strengthens back and abdominal muscles, not to mention the quads from all the kicking. These areas will definitely need to be in shape when it comes time for labor and delivery.

Who says that exercise has to be boring? Take a dance class. Dancing is the new way that people are getting fit and staying that way. The moves go from easy to complex with fast paced music to keep you going. Twirling on the floor with your mate gets the blood pumping without putting extra pressure on knees, hips, or your back.

Exercise for better health for you and your baby. Whether you have been exercising prior to conception or you are just starting out, be sure to check with your doctor prior to starting any workout routine after you become pregnant.

Here are some resources for you to kickstart your exercise routines!

Image from flickr.

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Last 5 posts by Marie

• What happens in childbirth classes - April 23rd, 2009
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• Are you ready for a baby? - April 6th, 2009