A lot of women may think they should stay off their feet for their entire pregnancy or may feel too sore or tired to continue an exercise program. However, just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you have to give up on fitness for the next nine months. There are some things to keep in mind to ensure you give yourself a safe workout, but staying active can be very beneficial to many aspects of your pregnancy.
Relieve Stress
As a pregnant woman you are being bombarded with a flood of hormones, changes in your body, and a slew of aches and pains. There are times that you will feel frustrated, stressed out, and out of control. Sticking to an exercise routine can alleviate a lot of those extra negative feelings. Pre-natal yoga can have a very calming affect while mild cardio will release endorphins that provide a sense of well being. Exercise will also help to increase your blood flow and can prevent you from getting too stiff and sore from inactivity.
Easier Pregnancy and Delivery
The more muscle strength and flexibility you have, the easier your delivery will be. Not only will your added muscle tone help to support the weight of your growing baby, it can reduce your delivery time if you’ve strengthened your back, pelvic, and abdominal muscles.
The increased lung capacity you can gain from cardio will also help with your breathing throughout labour. The better the shape your body is in, the less pain and discomfort you’ll feel from a more intensive or extended labour.
Feel Fit and Beautiful
The hormones your body produces while you’re pregnant are already playing with your emotions, but gaining that extra baby weight can be very depressing for some women. The endorphins your body releases while you exercise can make you feel great and the look and feel of a healthy body will go the extra mile in boosting your self-esteem. Preventing too much weight gain during pregnancy will make it easier to get back to your original weight and will also reduce the severity of potential stretch marks.
Types of Exercise to Try
Water aerobics is an extra exercise routine for pregnant women because much of that new weight you aren’t used to is supported by the buoyancy of the water. If you prefer a drier routine, pre-natal yoga is perfect for expecting mothers because it focuses on strengthening the muscles you’ll need most during your pregnancy and delivery. Practicing kegel exercises will also be very helpful once your labour starts.
If you already have a fitness routine you’ve been sticking to you should be able to continue on with it through your first trimester. However, the further along you get, the easier you should take it. For avid joggers, slowing your workout to a brisk walk will reduce unwanted bouncing in your abdominal section. For any pregnant women just starting out a new routine, it’s very important to start slow and possibly even consult your doctor before beginning a new activity.
Gaining excessive weight during your pregnancy is unnecessary and can be avoided by staying active and eating healthy. Joining pre-natal fitness classes can also be an excellent opportunity to meet other expecting mothers and hear their tips and exercise advice. It’s important not to overdo your workout routine, but staying in shape is good for you as well as your baby.
