Learn more about how to incorporate an exercise routine into your pregnancy safely. You should also speak with your doctor about your specific situation and ensure that any physical activity is safe for you and your child.
Is Exercising During Pregnancy Safe?
Exercising while pregnant is completely safe for women with a healthy, low-risk pregnancy.
However, certain conditions may prevent you from exercising. Women who have placenta previa, preeclampsia, high blood pressure, severe anemia, or have had the cerclage procedure should not be exercising during pregnancy. Furthermore, women who are pregnant with twins or triplets are at increased risk of preterm labor and should not be working out during pregnancy.
What Forms of Exercise Are Safe?
It’s suggested that women should be exercising about 150 minutes per week. This can be broken down however you would like. For example, you could do five 30-minute workouts a week. Try to participate in activities of moderate intensity. A helpful tip to tell if exercise is of moderate intensity is if you are able to talk normally but not sing. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends aerobic exercise, which may include:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Stationary Biking
- Prenatal Yoga or Pilates
The goal is to ensure you are getting in the movement for the largest muscles of your body, which is your arms and legs.
If you are just beginning to incorporate exercise into your routine, start small and slowly increase your activity as you become more comfortable.
What Are the Benefits of Physical Activity During Pregnancy?
Physical activity is incredibly beneficial to the body, including when you’re pregnant.
Exercise is vital to a healthy and happy mind and body, which can provide you with increased energy and a better mood. An increased mood also means better sleep and reduced stress.
It can also ease some common pregnancy symptoms, such as constipation, cramping, and back pain.
Other benefits include reduced risk of complications like diabetes and preeclampsia, healthy weight gain, and preparation of your body for birth.
Speak With A Professional
Every pregnancy is different, and it’s important to have a designated prenatal care plan and a trusted obstetrics and gynecology physician. Woodlands OBGYN Associates provides compassionate and quality care to women in The Woodlands, TX, and beyond. Schedule an appointment today at 281-364-9898 to develop your prenatal care plan.
