But during that time, you will need to discuss your exercise plans with your doctor early on and make a few adjustments to your normal exercise routine. The level of exercise recommended will depend, in part, on your level of pre-pregnancy fitness.
Benefits
No doubt about it, exercise is a big plus for both you and your baby.
It can help you feel better. At a time when you wonder if this strange body can possibly be yours, exercise can increase your sense of control and boost your energy level. It makes you feel better by releasing endorphins.
It can help relieve backaches and improve your posture by strengthening and toning muscles in your back, butt, and thighs.
It helps reduce constipation by accelerating movement in your intestine.
It assists with preventing wear and tear on your joints (which become loosened during pregnancy due to normal hormonal changes) by activating the lubricating fluid in your joints.
Exercise can help you sleep better by relieving the stress and anxiety that might make you restless at night.
It can make you look better. Exercise increases the blood flow to your skin, giving you a healthy glow.
Exercise prepares you and your body for birth. Strong muscles and a fit heart can greatly ease labour and delivery. Gaining control over your breathing can help you manage pain. And in the event of a lengthy labour, increased endurance can be a real help.
It can help you regain your pre-pregnancy body more quickly. You will gain less fat weight during your pregnancy if you continue to exercise (assuming you exercised before becoming pregnant). But do not expect or try to lose weight by exercising while you are pregnant. For most women, the goal is to maintain their fitness level throughout pregnancy.
Some studies have shown that exercise may even lower a woman’s risk of complications, like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
q Information obtained from www.kidshealth.org
