Exercise can provide numerous benefits both during pregnancy and during and after delivery. During your fifth month of pregnancy, your changing body and extra weight can affect your choice of exercise activities and workout programs. Although exercise is generally safe for most healthy pregnancies, some women experience complications that require limiting physical activity. Talk to your obstetrician before beginning any exercise program during your pregnancy, especially if you are not physically fit or have a high-risk pregnancy.
Benefits
Many women gain between 25 and 40 lbs. during pregnancy. You may start noticing this increase in weight during your second trimester or even before. Regular exercise helps you maintain a healthy weight as your baby grows. A consistent exercise program also provides the benefit of toning and strengthening your muscles, preparing your body for the rigors of childbirth.
Considerations
Exercise is usually easiest during the first few months of pregnancy and gets more difficult the closer you get to delivery. During your fifth month, you may notice a shift in your center of gravity as your body begins to carry extra weight in front. The extra weight and stress on your joints can affect your balance and make it easy to fall. At this stage of your pregnancy, you may you tire easier, especially when exercising. Keep your heart rate in a safe range by monitoring it or making sure you can talk normally while you work out.
Methods
The best forms of exercise during your pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, are those that don't require acute balance or extreme endurance. Exercises suitable for most healthy pregnancies include walking, swimming, yoga and low-impact or water aerobics. Although bicycling is suitable early in pregnancy, your changing shape can lead to back pain and increase your risk of accidents as your pregnancy progresses. Regardless of the type of exercise, start out slowly, avoid exerting yourself and drink plenty of fluids.
Precautions
Avoid high-impact workouts and contact sports. Don't perform exercises that require you to lie flat on your back during your second or third trimester. Stop exercising and contact your doctor immediately if you experience vaginal bleeding, uterine contractions, decreased fetal movement, chest pain or any other unusual symptoms. Don't hesitate to talk to your doctor about concerns you have during your pregnancy.
