Exercise in the first trimester of pregnancy, is not only safe, but recommended. Exercise for the entire duration of the pregnancy is encouraged and can not only improve overall heath and maintain fitness, but according to the Mayo Clinic's pregnancy guide can "help ease or even prevent discomfort, boost your energy level and improve your overall health. Exercise also helps you prepare for labor by increasing your stamina and muscle strength."
Step 1
Check with your doctor. Unless your pregnancy is considered high risk, most exercises are safe during the first trimester of pregnancy and beyond. But, make sure to check with your doctor, and get your doctor's OK on the type and intensity of exercises.
Step 2
Start slow. Even if you have never exercised before, or if has been a while since you have exercised, it's all right to begin in the first trimester of pregnancy. Walking, swimming or riding a stationary bicycle are good exercises during pregnancy. Thirty minutes is optimal, but you may need to start with five minutes and a time, and work your way to 30. If you have been exercising regularly before pregnancy, with your doctor's approval, you can most likely continue what you were doing prior to your pregnancy.
Step 3
Listen to your body. Do not push beyond your comfort level. The first trimester of pregnancy is not the time to be pushing your body to its limits. It is safe to work hard, just monitor how your body feels and if you have any warning signs stop exercising. Call your doctor if you do not start to feel better quickly. Look out for blurred vision, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding.
Step 4
Stay hydrated and cool. Drink plenty of water and don't allow yourself or the baby to become overheated by avoiding exercising during the hottest part of the day or exercise indoors.
Step 5
Continue to exercise throughout your pregnancy. Exercise through the duration of your pregnancy is safe as long as your pregnancy is continuing normally. Monitor your comfort level and make adjustments as needed. It is natural do need to decrease the intensity level as your pregnancy continues and you become more uncomfortable.
