Benefits of Exercising While Pregnant

Posted by admin

May 7, 2008

Being pregnant can be difficult. You’ll often feel less energetic while dealing with the inherent discomfort of carrying the additional weight. Even though your body feels sluggish and exercising is the last thing you feel motivated to do, staying in shape during your pregnancy offers a host of benefits. In this article, you’ll learn the reasons why exercising while you’re pregnant is recommended. We’ll also suggest a few activities to get you started and some tips on getting the most out of your workout routine.

Leisa Hart's FitMama Prenatal Workout (2003, VHS)
US $0.99 (1 Bid)
End Date: Tuesday May-13-2008 17:41:14 PDT
Bid now | Add to watch list

Benefits Of Exercising During Your Pregnancy

Exercise at any stage in your life is a great idea. But, it’s even more important during the months that you’re pregnant. Your stamina and strength can become sapped to the point that you begin feeling lethargic. Exercising will give you a much-needed boost of energy. It can release the endorphins that lift your mood and provide a natural high. Exercising will also help relieve the back pain that the extra weight you’re carrying can cause.

Another benefit of exercising during your pregnant months is that it increases blood circulation. Not only will the blood flow give your skin a youthful and healthy glow, it’ll help carry nutrients from the foods you eat throughout your entire body. Plus, doing exercises while you’re pregnant will make achieving your “before pregnancy” body much easier after you give birth to your child.

Exercises To Include

Most of the exercises that doctors recommend for pregnant women are low-impact and focus on 3 elements: building strength, flexibility and improving the cardiovascular system. For example, swimming is a great option because it allows you to move your limbs while offering buoyancy for your extra weight. Walking is another activity that moves your entire body without bouncing or jarring. Plus, you can easily modify the workout to include steeper inclines (whether you’re using a treadmill or walking outside), a quicker pace, or longer sessions.

It’s important that you start very slowly and gradually increase the time you spend on the exercises as well as the intensity of the workout. Remember, being pregnant means your body is changing each day. Give yourself time to adapt.

A Few Extra Tips

During the last several months of your pregnancy, your level of energy will be unpredictable. You may feel like you can move a mountain one day and barely move your body the next. As you’re doing your workout routine, listen to what your body is telling you. If you’re feeling dizzy or experiencing a shortness of breath, stop what you’re doing and sit down. Relax until the feeling passes. If you’re unable to carry a conversation while doing your workout, it’s likely that you’re exercising too hard.

You’re staying in shape during your pregnancy because it’s healthy for you and your baby. But, if you exercise too vigorously, your body can literally overheat, potentially causing complications.

Stay In Shape While Being Pregnant

Staying in shape during your pregnancy can play a key role in your health during and after you give birth to your child. Not only will you feel much better and more energized, but the increased blood circulation can distribute nutrients throughout your body while giving your skin a healthy-looking glow. But, you need to listen to your body for signs that you’re pushing yourself too hard. Check with your doctor and discuss your exercise plans to ensure that you avoid any potential problems down the road.

Leisa Hart's FitMama Prenatal Workout (2003, VHS)
US $0.99 (1 Bid)
End Date: Tuesday May-13-2008 17:41:14 PDT
Bid now | Add to watch list