The answer is yes! If you are pregnant, then you should definitely include exercise in your daily routine. From the first trimester to the third, exercising can help provide flexibility and prevent excess weight gain during pregnancy. It can even help you have an easier delivery and reduce the risk of complications. But, you need to pay heed to the kind of exercises you choose.
Remember, pregnancy exercises should never make you uncomfortable. Don’t choose heavy-weight exercises or strenuous workouts. Here are some exercises that you can try:
Brisk Walking
Walking is perhaps the safest and best exercise for pregnancy. Make sure you select comfortable walking shoes, then go for a brisk walk for 20 to 30 minutes daily. Be careful not to overexert your body. If you feel tired, take a break. You can walk right up until your delivery date.
Aerobics
Low-impact aerobics session such as Zumba can help you to stay fit and healthy. The main thing you need to consider is balance during the session. If at any time you feel uncomfortable during a workout, stop. It’s advisable that you don’t indulge in any high-impact movement after the second trimester unless cleared by your doctor.
Tip: Since high-impact aerobics aren’t recommended during pregnancy, try water aerobics!
Prenatal Yoga
Prenatal yoga is an ideal exercise for most expecting women. It helps keep you relaxed while also helping you maintain flexibility. There are special poses that you can practice during pregnancy, so find a good yoga instructor who is skilled in pregnancy yoga. Hot yoga should be avoided because of the risk excessive heat can have on the growing baby.
Additional tips to follow:
- Go slow if you are starting with a new exercise regime. Don’t overexert yourself.
- Always listen to your body when you exercise. Stop exercising if you feel uncomfortable.
- If you feel out-of-breath while exercising, stop immediately.
- Always wear comfortable clothes and shoes when you exercise.
- Make sure you eat a healthy diet. Don’t forget to hydrate and drink water daily.