Right Exercise for Pregnant Women

“Does a pregnant woman need to exercise?”

Pregnancy is a physically demanding state. You need to stay in shape and possess stamina and energy to cope with your bodily changes. Being as physically fit as you are is a big advantage.

When a woman is pregnant, the heart’s work load increases. Because of your fine state of health, you are well equipped to meet the demands of carrying a baby.

On your first prenatal check-up, discuss your exercise history with your obstetrician. The ideal exercises for pregnant women are calisthenics, stretching, swimming and cycling. Avoid strenuous activities such as jogging, jumping, aerobic dancing, and running.

Keep a regular schedule. Irregular exercise is much more stressful to your body than regular exercise.

Before each session, warm up your body with five minutes of low impact activity such as walking, moderate cycling on a stationary bicycle if you own one, or swimming leisurely laps. Warming up prepares your body for more strenuous exercises and prevents strain on your muscles.

Invest in a good bra and sport shoes.

Increase you caloric intake to make up for calories burned during your exercise program. Eat correctly – fish, lean meat, and low-fat cheese are recommended. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also desirable.

Drink plenty of liquids. Water and fresh fruit juices are perfect.

When you finish exercising, cool down for five minutes to let your heartbeat return to normal. Rest for 10 minutes lying on your left side to increase the flow of blood to your heart and to the placenta.

As long as you feel fit and able to do your exercises regularly throughout your pregnancy, there should be no problem. By the seventh month, however, all your exercise levels should decrease. Be more careful of your regimen and don’t attempt to push yourself beyond energy level.

By exercising during your pregnancy, you improve your capacity to meet the demands of a safe and easy delivery.