Exercising during pregnancy is a good way to keep your body in shape and keep water weight gain down. It will also make the delivery process a lot easier because the body will be in better shape to deal with the pain and contractions that are experienced during labor. Walking is the best exercise that a pregnant woman can do and it can be done throughout the pregnancy and up to the day of delivery.
Some exercises are not good for women that are pregnant and there are others that must be done in strict moderation. There are many other exercises that are healthy for a pregnant woman to do, but before starting any exercise program, a pregnant woman should discuss it in great detail with their obstetrician. A healthy dose of exercise each day will help keep an expectant mother in a good frame of mind.
What types of exercise are best when I'm pregnant?
The most comfortable exercises are those that don't require your body to bear extra weight. Swimming and stationary cycling can be continued throughout pregnancy. Walking and low-impact aerobics are usually well-tolerated. You and your doctor will need to decide what's best for you and your baby.
The inactivity will also cause the mother-to-be to gain extra weight. If they exercised everyday the mother-to-be would feel the increase in energy that is now pulsing through her veins. The baby will also notice the difference and the Mother might even notice that the baby will kick more often and harder than they ever did before the exercise program was started.
The Truth About Exercise in Pregnancy
Ready to test your smarts? The following questions, vetted by several top fitness and medical experts, will set the record straight on what’s really OK when it comes to exercise during pregnancy.
Of course, consult with your doctor before you start any exercise program. Some women will not be able to exercise during pregnancy because of specific conditions or complications.
Exercises to Try
That depends on what interests you and what your doctor advises. Many women enjoy dancing, swimming, water aerobics, yoga, Pilates, biking, or walking. Swimming is especially appealing, as it gives you welcome buoyancy (floatability or the feeling of weightlessness). Try for a combination of cardio (aerobic), strength, and flexibility exercises, and avoid bouncing.
