Exercise & Pregnancy

Exercise during pregnancy

Does exercising sound too much like a chore? We've got seven fantastic reasons why you'll actually love it!

1. Boosts energy

2. Sleep better

3. Reduce pregnancy discomfort

4. Prepare for childbirth

5. Reduce stress and lift your spirits

6. Improve your self image

7. Get your body back faster after childbirth

Pregnancy can steal your energy, but regular bouts of exercise will help you get thru your day! And the good news is you can safely start an exercise program during pregnancy even if you’ve been a couch potato up until now! According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, you can safely take place in 30 minutes or more of moderate exercise everyday, as long as you don’t have a medical condition or complication that your doctor or midwife has told you rules out exercise or limits your activity level.

Start slowly and wisely

Beginners should start by exercising 15 to 20 minutes at a time, three days a week -preferably with a day of rest between workouts. Don't go for the burn and don't exercise to exhaustion. A good rule of thumb: Slow down if you can't comfortably carry on a conversation.

Stick to low impact exercises such as, Walking, low impact aerobics, cycling, swimming, prenatal yoga and stretching.
Be careful to eat properly and get enough fluids. Being pregnant means you need approximately 300 extra calories a day, depending on your pre pregnancy weight. 

If you are not new to fitness, then the general rule of thumb is, if you did it before, then you can do it during. With of course some common sense involved! Every woman is different. So listen to your body! Talk to your Dr. and most of all, get a lot of rest!

 

Melanie Elliott

Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor

6 Months Pregnant