Pregnancy is an important change in your life and for your body. You have to be careful and take care of yourself more than ever. However, when we talk about taking care of ourselves, we often associate it with following a healthy diet, exercising, and staying hydrated.
Did we just say exercise? Yes, we did. Exercise and pregnancy do not go hand in hand. At least that’s what we think. We seem to think that EXERCISING IS A BIG NO during pregnancy. But is it really like that? If you worried about your fitness or were active before pregnancy, being inactive or resting all the time during pregnancy to be safe may make you irritable. It may also be counterintuitive because activity and exercise are good for your health, even during pregnancy.
Read this blog to know more.
Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to exercise during pregnancy, but there are some rules to follow. One rule you can’t break is to be kind. Avoid strenuous exercises and those that can cause imbalance or falls, such as cycling or standing yoga. There are several benefits of exercising during pregnancy.
Exercising during pregnancy offers numerous benefits for both the mother and the developing baby. Regular physical activity can help improve overall fitness, which in turn supports the mother’s ability to hold the baby comfortably as the pregnancy progresses. One of the key benefits is the reduction of common discomforts such as back pain, bloating and constipation, which are common complaints during pregnancy. Exercise, particularly activities such as swimming and prenatal yoga, can help with these problems by promoting better circulation, posture, and muscle tone.
Another important benefit is that it can make labor and delivery easier. Staying active can improve cardiovascular health, endurance and muscle strength, all of which are vital during childbirth.
Additionally, exercising during pregnancy can improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect mood, and regular physical activity releases endorphins, which can help improve mood.
Exercise also helps keep weight within healthy limits for both mother and baby. Additionally, exercising can improve blood circulation and keep muscles active.
However, you should always consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any exercise routine during pregnancy to ensure the safety of you and your baby.
Some tips to keep in mind when exercising during pregnancy
Consult a doctor first
Before starting any exercise routine during pregnancy, it is essential to consult your doctor. A doctor can evaluate your health and guide you on the safest and most appropriate activities based on your fitness level and stage of pregnancy.
Here are some exercises you can try, but talk to your healthcare provider first.
- wall pushups
- Leg raises
- ascending steps
- Modified planks
- Walk
- Supported V Sits
Start slow:
If you’re new to exercise or haven’t been active regularly, build into your routine gradually. Start with low-impact exercises like walking or prenatal yoga, allowing your body to adjust to the physical changes that come with pregnancy without overexerting yourself.
Avoid some exercises:
Certain exercises, such as those that involve heavy lifting, lying on your back, or high-impact movements, should be avoided during pregnancy. These can put unnecessary pressure on your body or increase the risk of injury. Focus on gentle, low-risk activities to stay fit safely.
Listen to your body:
Your body will give you signals if something doesn’t feel right. If you experience dizziness, shortness of breath, discomfort, or pain, stop exercising and rest.
Final thoughts
Exercising during pregnancy can offer a host of benefits for your physical and mental well-being. However, it is essential to exercise taking into account what is discussed in this blog. Always remember that your health and safety, along with that of your baby, must remain the top priority.
Book your full body health check today
