Pregnancy is a time when women feel they can freely put on weight, and that the more they eat, the better their baby will grow. This is a myth. How much you eat isn’t as important as what you eat and how you eat. Besides, this is no time to get lax on your workouts, instead exercising in pregnancy is considered very important for expecting mothers.
Every woman has a different metabolism and a different pregnancy. Therefore, it is imperative that you consult your gynaecologist or midwife before starting a new routine.
Advantages of Staying Fit in Pregnancy
The advantages of working out in pregnancy are many.
- Not only does exercising make your body flexible, it prepares it better for labour and keeps you active.
- It also improves blood circulation in the body which in turn regulates oxygen levels.
- Pregnancy exercises also make sure you don’t put on weight where its not required, such as your arms, legs and back.
Kinds of Workout in Pregnancy
There are many kinds of exercise regimens that pregnant women can incorporate. These include:
Yoga
This is considered the safest form of exercise for pregnant women. Yoga incorporates different aspects such as stretching, breathing and relaxation. Also, most asanas can be done easily, even towards the end of your pregnancy. Pranayama or breathing exercises must be practiced so as to regulate the flow of oxygen to the foetus and keep you relaxed at the same time. If you’re a first time pregnant mom, it’s better to join a class or practice with a yoga teacher.
Aerobics
Moms-to-be can practice high intensity exercises in the first trimester, but it’s better to shift to low intensity workouts at a later stage. While floor aerobics is generally avoidable in pregnancy, water aerobics or aqua aerobics is a good way to keep fit in these months. This is because women tend to be imbalanced in pregnancy, and water provides the support they need for working out, and reduces fatigue. It also helps tone the entire body, which means less effort to shed extra kilos post delivery.
