Your body goes through numerous changes and adjustments during the course of your pregnancy. As long as your health is good and your pregnancy normal, your doctor may recommend you stay physically fit. Although you may find you enjoy relaxing while waiting for the stork, or prefer doing nothing more strenuous than reclining in your easy chair, exercising during your pregnancy can improve your health. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, exercising during pregnancy may help prevent discomfort, shorten your labor and increase your strength and stamina. Talk to your doctor about this important aspect of your pregnancy.
Take a Walk
A great exercise for beginners, walking can provide gentle aerobic conditioning with minimal amounts of stress to your joints. You may find that the fresh air and sunlight boost your spirits and your level of energy. Grab a friend, relative or your family dog, and use this time to reconnect and share valuable time together. During the cold winter months, try walking around the inside of your shopping mall or public gymnasium.
Slip into Your Swimsuit
You may find the water relaxing, especially during the advanced stages of your pregnancy. A good all-over exercise, swimming or light water aerobics can reduce stress on your joints and create a feeling of buoyancy. You may also find that a relaxing dip in your local pool can help cool you down during the heat of summer, when pregnancy may seem stifling.
Yoga
Keep your muscles and joints fit during your pregnancy by practicing some gentle yoga stretches. Some women find these movements relaxing and beneficial for minor aches and pains. Joining a class can help motivate you and provide valuable instruction. Notify your instructor that you are pregnant. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends joining a prenatal yoga class.
Bicycling in Place
Although you may enjoy riding your bike along your local streets and trails during your early pregnancy, later stages of your pregnancy may alter your sense of balance. Avoid accidents cause by sudden movements by switching to a stationary bicycle. Stay in shape by setting aside some time each day for some easy peddling on your indoor bike. Avoid strenuous peddling and sip on water to stay hydrated during this aerobic type exercise.
Photo Credit
- hard exercise image by Paul Moore from Fotolia.com
