Benefits of Exercising While You’re Pregnant

For many women, pregnancy seems like the perfect time to sit back and relax. Of course, you want to enjoy this stage of motherhood and hitting the gym might be the last thing on your mind.

caution:For many women, pregnancy seems like the perfect time to sit back and relax. Of course, you want to enjoy this stage of motherhood and hitting the gym might be the last thing on your mind.

Prevents Excess Weight Gain

Weight gain during pregnancy is inevitable, but gaining too much weight can be bad for your health as well as that of your unborn baby. Excess weight gain during pregnancy increases the risk of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and the need for a C-section.
But regular exercise can help burn excess calories and keep your weight in check.

Relieves Constipation

Taking iron supplements as well as the increased level of progesterone in the body during pregnancy can lead to constipation. But women who are active often do not suffer from constipation.
An active body encourages active bowels. Just a brisk 30-minute walk on a daily basis can keep your bowel movements regular.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Blood pressure will occasionally rise during pregnancy, but if it’s happening too often or rising too high, it can lead to preeclampsia. Staying active can help reduce your risk of obstetrical complications like high blood pressure.

Prevents Gestational Diabetes

Regular exercise right from the initial stage of pregnancy can help prevent gestational diabetes, which is very common in women who are obese.
Exercise helps prevent unhealthy weight gain during pregnancy as well as improves glucose metabolism and reduces insulin resistance.

Eases Back and Pelvic Pain

Often as women enter the second and third trimesters, they suffer from lower back pain. This can be due to weight gain, posture changes and tensed muscles.
To ease back or pelvic pain, exercise is the best option. Regular exercise strengthens your muscles, which helps your body cope better with the aches and pains of pregnancy.

Important Tips

• Walking is a great exercise that can be performed throughout pregnancy.
• Other good choices include swimming, low-impact aerobics and cycling on a stationary bike.
• Avoid any kind of intense exercise, as it can make you more tired.
• Always warm up, stretch and cool down during a workout session.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, and be careful to avoid getting overheated.
• Start small, stay motivated and just get moving.
• Exercise can be more fun if you do it with your partner or a friend.
• If you’re not sure whether a particular activity is safe during pregnancy, always ask your doctor first.