It is a common misconception that exercising and pregnancy do not go together. In fact, it is possible for pregnant women to remain active and healthy while they are expecting. This article is meant to serve as a guide in helping you figure out how to exercise while you are pregnant.
Particularly if you were fit prior to conceiving, it should be fine for you to work out during your pregnancy. However, it is important to remember that some pregnancies are more complicated than others, so it is essential that you speak to your doctor before you exercise. Talk about what types of things you would like to do and inquire about any modifications that you may need to incorporate into your fitness routine. If you were not fit prior to your pregnancy, it is still possible to stay active; discuss your situation with your health care provider and figure out what will work best for you.
Swimming is generally considered to be an exceptionally safe way for women to exercise while pregnant. Not only does it give all your limbs a good work out, it is also beneficial for your heart and your lungs. An added benefit for most women is the way that the water makes them feel; swimming is one of the only times during pregnancy that you will not notice the extra weight that you have gained.
Another exercise that pregnant women commonly engage in is walking. Because there is very little risk of falling, walking is the perfect way for an expectant mother to stay in shape. Consider your schedule and figure out the best way to work in a thirty minute walk; some women find that walking after dinner is best for them, while others enjoy going on a brisk walk after lunch. Whenever you do it, try to make walking a part of your daily routine.
Squatting is another great way to exercise when pregnant, and it can even help you get ready for labor. Start out doing just a few at a time and holding them for about half a minute. As you get more proficient at the exercise, you can extend your hold time to as much as a minute and a half. The nice thing about squatting is that you can do it just about anywhere: at home, at the office, or even while your children are playing in the yard.
No matter how you decide to exercise, make sure you are consistent with what you do. If you work out one month, stop the next and then pick it up again, your body is going to suffer because there is no routine involved with what you are doing. While the actual exercises that you engage in will change as your body changes, you should try keep your workout days and times the same whenever possible.
While many things do change while you are pregnant, your ability to stay fit and healthy does not have to be one of them. Use this article as a guide to mapping out your own exercise routine, and have fun working out during your pregnancy!
