Many people have this feeling and thought that exercise and pregnancy do not mix and that exercising can harm their unborn baby but the opposite is true. Exercise during pregnancy is not only safe during pregnancy it is highly recommended. Everything in moderation, you just have to listen to your body!
Exercise not only benefits the mother but the unborn baby as well. Staying physically active while pregnant can have the following benefits for the mother:
• May help in the presentation of gestation diabetes
• May assist the mother with some physical discomforts of pregnancy such as backache, body aches and fatigue which are all common during most pregnancies.
• Relieve stress and give the mother more energy
• Build and maintain strength and endurance to assist in the delivery process and post-delivery recovery.
• Can assist in your mood and helps pregnancy women sleep better
Most exercises are considered safe during pregnancy the mother just has to exercise with caution and listen to their bodies while exercises. Some common precautions that a pregnancy mother needs to consider:
• Exercise on a flat surface to reduce the risk of falling
• Make sure your wear comfortable clothing and footwear
• Do not hold your breath during any exercise as this may reduce the oxygen to baby.
• Do not train in extreme weather conditions such as humid and hot weather
• Ensure you are eating correctly before and after training to accommodate for the calorie loss while exercising
• Try avoiding excessive bouncing and jumping exercises as well as any exercise that may cause abdominal muscle injury.
• Make sure you are consuming enough liquids before, during and after exercise, the key is to try stay well hydrated.
• Never exercise to the point of exhaustion
• You are more flexible during pregnancy so be aware to not over stretch.
If you have never exercised before you need to start off slow and low intensity to not shock your body and muscles, if you have exercises before you need to take it down a notch but can still continue will most exercises. The best is to consult with your doctor before starting or continuing training and also to consult with a biokineticist. Biokineticists are trained to assist women in pre and post-natal training and have the knowledge and skills to keep you active and fit during your pregnancy.
