The first three months of pregnancy are a bit tricky. You may not look pregnant. So, if you have been on a workout before you conceived, you can continue to exercise the same way. However, to be on the safe side, you may shift your workout session to light aerobics and strength training.

The first trimester

The first trimester is very important for you as well as your developing baby. Your exercise should be such that your heartbeats remain 140 or less per minute. WALKING IS THE BEST EXERCISE. You need not walk a mile at one go. Take 2-3 walks for about 10-15 minutes in a day. Have your meal, take some rest, and then put on your shoes! Believe me, your baby will thank you for this!

You will start showing by now. The low-impact exercise that strengthens your back and belly will certainly help you a lot, as you start to grow bigger. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends moderate exercise for about half an hour, either daily or five days a week. But you should have no serious obstetric or other health conditions. And don't forget to add warm up as well as cool down period involving mild aerobics and stretching in your workout session.

The second trimester

THE BEST EXERCISES ARE SWIMMING, STATIONARY CYCLING, AND LOW-IMPACT AEROBICS. It's good to have a friend or family member around while exercising. It's even better to have a certified instructor with you for assistance, if needed.

The third trimester

If you have been exercising from the beginning of your pregnancy, you will begin to experience the benefits of it now and this is the time when you are in utmost need of them. With a regular workout regime, you will have a strong back and an energized body that is ready to welcome the baby!

During the last three months of your pregnancy, YOU SHOULD AVOID doing exercises that call you to hold your breath for extended periods of time, or require plenty of jumping, bouncing, or running. According to the doctors, you should stop those exercises or stretches that call for lying on your back or right side for more than three minutes.

REMEMBER; AVOID EXERCISING IN TOO HOT OR HUMID WEATHER IN ANY OF THE TRIMESTERS.