Just because you're pregnant doesn't mean you have to cut out exercise altogether. In fact, the American Pregnancy Association recommends making prenatal exercise a part of your daily routine. While you may not be able to participate in some of the types of exercise you love, prenatal workout DVDs can help you stay fit with workouts for pregnant women, all in the comfort of your own home. Try a number of different DVDs to keep your workout fresh for fitness throughout your pregnancy.
Yoga DVDs
Prenatal yoga is recommended by Babycenter.com as a way to stay fit without putting yourself or your baby at harm. Yoga is especially beneficial when you suffer from back pain or stress during your pregnancy, both common complaints. A prenatal yoga DVD will lead you through a serious of breathing exercise and poses that are safe for gestating women. Some yoga DVDs to try include "Getting Started with Prenatal Yoga" and "Jennifer Wolfe's Prenatal Vinyasa Yoga."
Aerobics DVDs
If your favorite type of exercise is anything that gets your heart rate pumping, you may be dismayed when your doctor rules out high impact aerobics. Luckily, you can still engage in prenatal low-impact aerobics in order to stay fit and healthy throughout your pregnancy. The moves for low impact aerobics are usually slower and less challenging than you're used to, but they're still a beneficial addition to your workout routine. Try DVDs such as "Denise Austin: Fit and Firm Pregnancy" and "Prenatal Fitness Fix."
Dance DVDs
When you prefer to get your groove on while staying fit, you don't have to stop when you get a positive pregnancy test. Dance is an effective way to burn calories and keep your body toned, even as you begin to see changes in your physique. Lower impact types of dance, like belly dancing, move slowly enough that you're not putting your body at risk, while still giving you a workout. Try workout DVDs like "Belly Dance Prenatal Fitness" and "MommyShape Prenatal Complete DVD - Sculpt, Dance, & Yoga for Birth, Baby & Beyond."
Pilates DVDs
Pilates endorses the philosophy of using slow, controlled movements in order to sculpt lean dancer's muscles. If you loved to practice Pilates before you became pregnant, it's fine to continue doing so as long as you avoid moves that require to lie flat on your back. Pilates can help you stay toned throughout your pregnancy, so you gain your pre-pregnancy shape back more easily following the birth of your baby. Try "10 Minute Solution: Prenatal Pilates" or "Stott Pilates: Prenatal Pilates on the Ball" for safe and easy exercises.
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