You can't just jump on your feet and start huffing and puffing during pregnancy. You need to take precautionary measures during your workout session. When you are pregnant, your body releases a chemical known as relaxing. It makes your body vulnerable to injury. So, always STRETCH AND DO WARM UPS before and after your workout to protect your muscles and joints.

When not to exercise?

There are times when you need to stay away or restrict your exercise during pregnancy. You need to stop at once when:

• You get regular and uncomfortable contractions during exercise.
• Your blood pressure is high.
• You find spots of blood in your underwear during or after workout.
• There is premature rupture or leaking of the membranes.
• You experience excessive nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
• DON'T EXERCISE IF YOU HAVE A HEART DISEASE, DIABETES, OR ASTHMA.

Call your doctor if you get any of the above symptoms.

Let me tell you this: never force your body. The ultimate aim of exercise is to make you feel better, and not uneasy or sick. THE BEST EXERCISE CHOICES DURIGN PREGNANCY ARE WALKING, STRETCHING, PRENATAL AEROBICS, SWIMMING, AND YOGA.

There are many doctors who provide pilates, prenatal yoga, and aerobics classes that are specially meant for pregnant women. You can visit your local recreation center in case you don't have a membership to the gym. Know what I did? I bought myself an exercise video and kept myself in shape within the comforts of my home. Good idea, isn't it?

However, don't expect to get back to your original shape in a jiffy after delivery. Your body needs time. Be patient with it. Moreover, it's not all about having a great figure. What matters most is that you are healthy and fit, which means you have loads of stamina, a good posture, and reduced symptoms.