A Physically Fit Pregnancy
December 5th, 2011
The lifestyle of a pregnant woman is a different type, with alterations to your diet as well as changes to your appearance. When it comes to working out and living an active life though, nothing really needs to change at all. If you are used to maintaining a physical fitness regimen, that doesn’t need to change one bit. Not only can a pregnant woman continue to work out, but the physical exercise can actually help women feel less pain during their pregnancy. Pregnant women who remain physically active during their pregnancy often end up with fewer musculoskeletal issues than women who skip on the exercise. While pregnant women should always seek their doctor’s approval before beginning their fitness routines, that exercise can end up reducing lower back and pelvis pain. Walking, stretching, pre-natal yoga and aerobics (the low impact variety) can really help to limit pain associated with the pregnancy.
Just a few things that pregnant women should keep in mind when exercising:
- Start off slowly and cool down slowly. Slowly increase your workout, rather than pushing it too hard early in the process.
- Conduct your workout at a conservative pace.
- Wear comfortable shoes during your workout to help reduce lower back pain.
- Take time to rest properly before and during your workout.
- Avoid exercising while lying on your back during your third trimester, as that position can often place too much pressure on your circulatory system and restrict the blood flow to your baby.
- Use smooth, low impact exercises to avoid a higher risk of joint injury.
- Avoid exercise at altitudes of more than 6,000 feet, as it can reduce the amount of oxygen provided to your unborn child.
- Drink lots of liquid at all stages of the workout.
- Do not work out in extremely high heat or humidity.
- If you experience any of the following symptoms: dizziness, headache, chest pain, abdominal pain, blurred vision, vaginal bleeding or decreased fetal movement, discontinue exercising and call your doctor immediately.
In short, be careful when you work out during your pregnancy. Wear comfortable women’s walking shoes, get lots of rest and don’t overdo it on the exercise. You’ll discover that not only can it help maintain a healthy pregnancy, but you’ll have a head start on the post-natal workouts to get the figure back after the baby is born.
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