These exercises may also improve the sensitivity during sex and incontinence. To strengthen the muscles, it is often recommended to try squeezing these muscles 10 to 15 times in a row. These are the muscles used to start and stop the flow of urine while using the bathroom. Pelvic floor exercises, also called Kegels, are also recommended to help stretch the muscles between your legs that run from the pubic bone to your back. Swimming is also good because it makes you feel weightless, taking the strain of the weight of baby off you for a while. Make sure if you are not a regular swimmer to take things easy at first. Swimming also strengthens stomach muscles, may help align the pelvis, and is often recommended to make sure baby is in the correct position for delivery. Swimming is an another excellent exercise for pregnancy, as it can help ease discomfort of the baby aches. My midwife recommended that I walk for at least half an hour a day and I found I actually felt best when I was able to walk for about an hour.

It also helps increase circulation and aligns the pelvis. Walking is a good exercise since it gives you a good workout at a level you can manage. Some great exercises that are often recommended during pregnancy are: Walking I don’t mention these examples to make you feel bad that you’re not perfecting your double-axle while growing adorable little earlobes, but rather to show you that women are a lot more resilient than we give ourselves credit for. After checking with a doctor or midwife, many women find that they can maintain most of their previous activities during pregnancy and that it may even be recommended to increase activity slightly.

And Connie Neal made headlines by playing Division 1 basketball up through her 8th month. Olympic curler Kristie Moore competed in the Olympics while 5 months pregnant. So what, exactly, can pregnant women do to exercise? Olympic marathoners Kara Goucher and Paula Radcliffe clocked in 60-80 miles per week running during their pregnancies. In fact, there are many benefits to spending time outside during pregnancy. For an added boost, try exercising outside when possible, as the exposure to natural light and the Vitamin D will have added benefits. So it makes sense for gestating moms to stay as active as possible.Įxercise is proven to help not just your mood but also increases energy levels to help get you through the day. If possible, focus on exercises you enjoy (especially walking, swimming, stretching, pilates, or other gentle movements). Not to mention that for a lot of moms exercising makes them happier, less anxious, and feel more in touch with their growing body. Benefits of a Fit PregnancyĮxercise during pregnancy provides tons of great benefits for both mom (shorter labor and faster weight loss!) and the baby (less colic and greater physical resiliency). It is also important to support the body with a nutrient dense diet and supplement it with vitamins & minerals recommended by a doctor or midwife during pregnancy, especially if also exercising regularly, as pregnancy is a time of increased nutrient need and the first priority should be nourishing the mom’s body and the growing baby. Studies show that moms who are active by walking, swimming, and other gentle forms of movement may have easier deliveries, healthier babies, and recover more quickly. Keeping active during pregnancy is always a good idea. It is important to check with a doctor or midwife to make sure there aren’t any particular concerns for your pregnancy, but in most cases, a woman can continue normal exercise routines during pregnancy and even add exercises like walking or swimming to have a fit pregnancy.ĭuring pregnancy, exercise is important to help keep the body moving and flexible and to prepare for the intense workout that is labor.

Last Thoughts on Fitness During Pregnancy.

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