Coping with the physical changes of pregnancy can be overwhelming, but a good fitness regimen can play an important role in a healthy pregnancy. While you're certainly going to gain weight during pregnancy, staying fit can help ensure that your belly bump doesn't turn into full-body lumpiness. Combined with a healthy eating plan and regular doctor visits, a gentle fitness regimen can help you achieve that pregnancy glow.
Identification
An effective pregnancy fitness plan combines cardiovascular exercises, like walking, swimming and dancing, with flexibility- and strength-training exercises, like yoga, stretching and light weight training, according to BabyCenter.com, an online pregnancy and parenting information resource. This combination helps manage your pregnancy weight gain and allows you to stay limber as you put on pregnancy pounds.
Considerations
Take it easy when it comes to pregnancy workouts, recommends WomensHealth.gov, an online women's health information resource maintained by the National Women's Health Information Center. Be sure to drink plenty of water before and during workouts and avoid working out in very hot or humid weather. Don't push yourself; if you are tired or sore, stop your workout.
Benefits
Expecting moms can get a number of benefits from exercise, according to WomensHealth.gov. Regular exercise can help you feel better and sleep better during pregnancy and may help prepare your body for labor so that childbirth is faster and less painful. Staying fit while you're pregnant may also make it easier for you to lose weight after your baby is born.
Expert Insight
If you're not sure how to stay fit during pregnancy, make a few simple changes, recommends the Weight Control Information Network, a weight management information network maintained by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Take a walk around the block with your partner or a friend, or sign up for a prenatal yoga or aerobics class to work out with other expecting moms. Even something as simple as getting up and pacing the living room during television commercials can help boost your fitness level.
Warning
Some types of exercise pose a high risk for expecting moms and you should avoid engaging in them while you're pregnant, warns the Weight Control Information Network. Avoid contact sports and high-risk activities like horseback riding, boxing or football. Skip workouts that require you to quickly change direction since loose joints and a changing center of gravity increase your risk for falls. If you are at risk for premature labor, exhibit vaginal bleeding or have other pregnancy health issues, your doctor may recommend that you don't exercise.
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