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Jan 23, 2016

Is it safe to work out while I am pregnant?

Here is the truth about “working out for two…”

If you are one of the women who is active, you should remain active just not as vigorously. You may continue running for instance, but avoid over doing it. Over-exertion is something you need to avoid, because if you are over doing it, you are going to need more and more oxygen and you cut into your baby’s supply. Remember to drink lots of water, you need to make sure you stay cool and hydrated. Remember to eat a well balanced diet to help you and your baby remain healthy and fit. www.Parents.com

Exercise can:

Boost your energy level. It makes you feel better by releasing endorphins (naturally occurring chemicalsin your brain.)

Relieve backaches and improve your posture by strengthening and toning muscles in your back, butt, and thighs.

Reduce constipation by accelerating movement in your intestines.

Prevent wear and tear on your joints (which become loosened during pregnancy due to normal hormonal changes) by activating the lubricating fluid in your joints.

Help you sleep better by relieving the stress and anxiety that might make you restless at night.

Make you look better. Exercise increases the blood flow to your skin, giving you a healthy glow.

Prepare you and your body for birth. Strong muscles and a fit heart can greatly ease labor and delivery.

Train you to gain control over your breathing, helping you learn to manage pain. In the event of a lengthy labor, increased endurance can be a real help.

Regain your pre-pregnancy body more quickly. You’ll gain less fat weight during your pregnancy if you continue to exercise (assuming you exercised before becoming pregnant). But don’t expect or try to lose weight by exercising while you’re pregnant. For most women, the goal is to maintain their fitness level throughout pregnancy. Studies have shown that exercise lowers a woman’s risk of complications, like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes by about 27%.