Home » » Important Information On Safe Exercise During Pregnancy

Important Information On Safe Exercise During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it is important to maintain a certain fitness routine without overdoing it. In fact, any activity performed during these months must aim toward strengthening of muscles and maintaining a good fitness level. Speak to your healthcare advisor for details of safe exercise during pregnancy.

Your fitness regime must be done moderately and only as much as is comfortable to you. Instead of vigorous movements, it is recommended to progress slowly. When starting workout, aim for a warm up first. Don't overstretch yourself or perform activities that require you to lie flat on your back for long time or on your stomach. Your exercise should be directed for about 30 minutes per day for three times in a week so that it makes you do safe exercise during pregnancy. Of course, your duration completely depends on your comfort level and medical conditions as would be determined by the doctor. Exercising must not make you breathless or exhausted. Rather, pay attention to the signals that your body is giving you and stop immediately if you feel any discomfort.

You can find safe exercise during pregnancy including walking, light jogging, swimming, yoga, stationary cycling, and simple aerobics. Some sports can also be taken up with prior permission of the doctor.

When starting exercising, there are some details you must keep in mind so as to safe exercise during pregnancy.

  • Wear good shoes that provide support to your body. As your body grows, the center of gravity shifts and maintaining balance becomes difficult. As such, whether you chose to do aerobics, walk, jog, or any other exercise, the terrain should be flat and level. Similarly, wear loose and comfortable clothes and avoid garments that are too tight, especially around the belly.
  • Never consume a heavy meal before you begin exercising and drink adequate water after the exercise.
  • From your second and third trimesters, avoid any form of exercise that requires you to lie on your back for too long. This is important to keep the blood flow normal. Similarly, do not perform any exercise that needs you to lie on your belly as this puts pressure on the stomach.
  • Warm up is essential to starting exercising. Spend at least five minutes getting your body ready. At the same time, avoid activities that lead to excessive heating of the body. One you finish, take your time to stand up. Sudden movements often cause dizziness and feeling nauseated.
  • Never exert yourself to any point where you're unable to speak clearly while exercising. If you feel out of breath, slow down or stop your activity.
  • Activities that require you to hold your breath must be never done. Similarly, any exercise that might cause abdominal contractions or pain should be avoided.

No matter what pattern you follow, maintaining a regular routine allows you to stay fit and healthy throughout pregnancy. In fact, safe exercise during pregnancy helps relieve the body from stress, pain, and fatigue. Women who have performed moderate exercise during pregnancy are known to have relatively easy labor and quick post delivery healing.