Pregnancy and fitness

The best ways to benefit from exercise and stay in shape while pregnant

Exercise while pregnant boosts mood, improves sleep and reduces aches and pains. Because of the stronger muscles, baby-birth will be much easier. It also increases overall health and well-being.

To attain good results, pregnant women should exercise moderately at least 30 minutes a day, most days. Nevertheless, for the last few months of your pregnancy, make sure you consult your medical provider before any training regimen.

The following activities are usually safe for expectant moms-to-be, if no other specifications from supervising doctor:

• Walking: one of the best cardiovascular exercises for expecting women, it is safe throughout all nine months of pregnancy.

• Swimming: ideal for pregnant women, considered to be the safest exercise, adds cardiovascular benefits and very relaxing, because it allows the weightless feel despite the extra pounds of pregnancy.

• Light aerobics: strengthens your heart and tones your body. Also improves your social life, if you join other moms-to-be in aerobics class.

• Dancing: suitable and pleasant, because light dancing moves can be done in the comfort of your own home.

• Yoga: helps maintain muscle tone and flexibility, with low joint impact.

• Stretching: wonderful for preventing muscle strain and also for relaxation.

• Weight lifting: first of all, considerably reduce the amount of weight that you usually lift. Instead, you can do more repetitions to ensure proper workout. By using a good technique and precaution, this can be a great way to tone your body and prepare for birth.

Don’t stop exercising while pregnant. If no contraindications from your doctor, psychical activity can bring lots of benefits to both mother and child. Also, baby-birth process can become much easier if your body is healthy and well prepared.