Pregnancy doesn’t mean that you have to remain bedridden for nine months. True, it’s not good to over-exert yourself while pregnant, but this doesn’t mean you have to stop exercising. In fact, it is widely recommended that pregnant women maintain a consistent exercise schedule. Of course, your pregnancy workout regiment must avoid any exercises that will potentially cause damage to you or your baby. You don’t wanna make too much effort or put any strain on your growing belly.
Things to Remember
If you are used to weight training and aerobics, you may continue doing them when you get pregnant. Reduce your weight amount and do aerobics in moderations. Your heart rate should never exceed 130-140 beats. This causes your body to overheat which is definitely bad for the baby. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
If you didn’t regularly weight train or do aerobic exercises prior to pregnancy, don’t start during your pregnancy. Also, consult with your doctor to get more specific recommendations on what you should or shouldn’t do in terms of exercise. Motivate yourself with new clothes for yourself or your baby like a cute infant onesie.
What to Avoid
Don’t do squats while you’re pregnant, as this can cause your placenta to sever from the uterus. Avoid any ab workouts and anything that requires you to lie on your back, since laying on your back places too much strain on your baby and your internal organs.
Recommended Exercises
Swimming is probably the best exercise a pregnant woman can do. It allows you to work out all of your muscles will remaining safe. There is no danger of over-straining or putting too much pressure on your joints or muscles. Plus, in water, you feel weightless and it is easier to move.
If you were weight training before you got pregnant, you can continue to do so in any sitting exercise machine. Do low weight amounts and high rep counts.
Walking is also a great exercise. It keeps you limber and burns calories without being too taxing on your knees or ankles. You can do it anywhere and it doesn’t require expensive equipment.
Finally, yoga can be a great addition to your exercise routine. It keeps you relaxed and de-stressed. It also helps maintain your limbs and joints flexible, and your muscles toned.
