Exercising during pregnancy is a great way to stay healthy and fit, but it’s important to know what types of exercises are safe for you and your baby. While some activities may be off-limits, there are plenty of ways to get in a good workout while pregnant.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week. This can include walking, swimming, stationary cycling, yoga or Pilates classes specifically designed for pregnant women.
It’s also important to avoid any activities that involve contact with other people or could cause you to fall, such as skiing or horseback riding, as well as any activity where you would have difficulty maintaining balance due to your changing center of gravity.
It’s also important not to overdo it when exercising during pregnancy. Listen carefully to your body and stop if you feel tired or experience pain. Make sure you drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise sessions so that you don’t become dehydrated. Additionally, make sure the temperature in the room isn’t too hot since overheating can be dangerous for both mother and baby.
If done safely under medical supervision, certain sports such as running may still be possible during pregnancy, depending on how far along one is in their term. However, this should always be discussed with an obstetrician first before engaging in any strenuous physical activity while expecting a child.
Walking is another great form of exercise, which can help keep mom-to-be active without putting too much strain on her body. Just remember not to push yourself too hard.
Overall exercising while pregnant has many benefits, including improved sleep quality and energy levels as well as helping reduce backaches and constipation, all things every expectant mother needs.
So long as precautions are taken into consideration, like avoiding contact sports and listening closely to one’s own body, then there’s no reason why staying active shouldn’t continue throughout pregnancy.