The Mayo Clinic states that: Pregnancy might seem like the perfect time to sit back and relax. You likely feel more tired than usual and your back might ache from carrying extra weight. But unless you’re experiencing complications, sitting around won’t help. In fact, pregnancy can be a great time to get active — even if you haven’t exercised in a while.
Regular exercise can help you cope with the physical changes of pregnancy and build stamina for the challenges ahead. If you haven’t been exercising regularly, use pregnancy as your motivation to begin.
IMPORTANT – Before starting an exercise program during pregnancy, inquire with your physician about the type of exercise that is right for you.
Working with a professional trainer is the safest and best option when exercising during pregnancy. You can have someone there to guide you through an approved healthy routine, that knows what they are doing. Someone that is there to monitor you, spot you, slow you down or motivate you. If you want to continue training the safest option is to work with a certified trainer.
Why exercise during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, exercise can:
- Reduce backaches, constipation, bloating and swelling
- Boost your mood and energy levels
- Help you sleep better
- Prevent excess weight gain
- Promote muscle tone, strength and endurance
Other possible benefits of following a regular exercise program during pregnancy may include:
- A lower risk of gestational diabetes
- Shortened labor
- A reduced risk of having a C-Section delivery
Depending on your fitness level, consider these guidelines:
- You haven’t exercised for a while. Begin with as little as 10 minutes of physical activity a day. Build up to 15 minutes, 20 minutes, and so on, until you reach at least 30 minutes a day.
- You exercised before pregnancy. You can probably continue to work out at the same level while you’re pregnant — as long as you’re feeling comfortable and your health care provider says it’s OK.
IMPORTANT – Before starting an exercise program during pregnancy, inquire with your physician about the type of exercise that is right for you.