Should a pregnant woman exercise? The answer is typically, yes. A moderate exercise program during pregnancy can help a woman feel better. Once she has talked to her doctor, a fitness program that’s done safely and routinely will often help a pregnant woman avoid excess weight gain.
A routine fitness program is essential to the health and well being of your body and mind. Along with improving muscle tone, increased oxygen to your organs will also improve stamina during delivery – think about what your heart and lungs will be doing during labor. Not only will your heart and lungs appreciate the extra oxygen, but so will your brain. Increased oxygen to the brain helps you remain alert and have a general sense of well being. During the delivery, in the recovery room, and at home, your body and mind will appreciate all you’ve done to improve your physical and emotional health.
Postpartum depression is a fear that many pregnant women share. Physical exercise, paired with an active involvement with other women, can help lessen the severity and fear that surrounds this sort of depression. A good exercise program will increase oxygen to the brain which will result in increased alertness, improved cognitive thought, and an overall feeling of well being. Choosing an exercise program that keeps you in touch with other pregnant women is a great way to watch out for each other and calm this particular fear.
Start thinking about what sort of fitness program you would like to do. Now, call your doctor and set up an appointment, because you won’t start any exercise program without consulting your doctor first. Once you get the “okay” choose an exercise program or two that you think you’ll like, and begin. The following are a few suggestions and guidelines:
Take A Walk – You’ll need a good, no, make that a great, pair of walking shoes and comfortable clothes. Most pregnant women can tolerate about a 20 to 30 minute walk every other day, but consult your doctor. Walking, whether in a mall, on a track, or on a safe sidewalk, can do the body and mind wonders. Be sure to consider where you’re walking before you begin. You need a well lit area that is safe. Also, walk with other people to ensure your safety should you need assistance.
Take A Swim – Even if you don’t consider yourself a good swimmer, being in a pool of water is believed to be one of the least stressful exercise programs for pregnant women. The whole gravity thing disappears while you’re in the water, leaving you free to stretch and strengthen without the burden of the weight on your joints, hips, back, or bladder. You can do regular exercises with special pool dumbbells or you can just use the resistance provided by the water for your leg lifts and bicep curls. Or, you can just swim gently through the water getting the exercise you need as you perfect your swimming strokes.
Low Impact Exercises – Fitness programs that feature low or no impact exercises can be just what you’re looking for. Programs like Pilates often use moves that are perfect for a pregnant woman. Of course, Yoga has been used for centuries to help keep a pregnant woman fit and flexible. Look for sources like videos and books that feature specific programs designed for pregnant women and give those a try first. Be sure to ask your doctor if this type of exercise program is appropriate for you.
Playing Sports – Some sports may be acceptable as exercise if your doctor approves. However, the vast majority of games that are played with balls and/or running will have you benched. You won’t be suiting up to play baseball, tennis, racquetball, or football. They are just too dangerous considering you could be hit by a ball or run over. Once your little “passenger” is no longer along for the ride, you can get back in the game. Until then, enjoy the game from the sidelines. Any sport or adventure should be approved by your doctor before even considering it.
It’s time to choose a couple exercise programs. I say a couple because most women get bored doing the same exercise over and over. And, being pregnant, you may have to alter your program as the months go by. One month you may just love to get out and walk, but towards the end, you may find it very stressful on your back and need to change to a no-impact exercise. Moving to a belly dancing video during the first half of your pregnancy may be really fun, but stretching out in yoga positions may feel better during the second half. Mix up your routine a little, once you’ve gotten your doctor’s approval, again!
Exercise is always good for you, but it’s crucial when you’re pregnant. Both you and your baby deserve the best, most physically and emotionally healthy person you can be. Exercise to build strength and stamina, but also to relieve stress and feel good. Call your doctor today to set up an appointment to discuss your exercise options. Pick out a couple fitness programs to try and get started! You deserve it, and so does your baby!
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