What Sort Of Exercise Can I Do Now I'm Pregnant?

A good question.

First of all, it depends on how fit you are and what type of exercise routine you have at the moment. A mild to moderate exercise routine is normally very beneficial for both you and the baby, but you should ask your doctor's advice directly in case there are any medical contra-indications in your case.

Be Cautious With Strenuous Exercise

High impact strenuous exercise such as jogging or racquetball is more likely to lead to a miscarriage during the first trimester, than other less strenuous forms of exercise. Of course this is when you don't always know you are pregnant!

So if you have had a miscarriage in the past or are planning a pregnancy, especially if you are an older would-be-mum, you should be especially careful to ease back on this type of exercise or switch to something a bit more gentle altogether.

Don't Overheat

One of the important things to remember is that when you are pregnant your body is much less able to regulate your body temperature, so you need to be careful not to overheat. Make sure you drink enough and avoid the gym sauna or your hot tub during your pregnancy, so that you aren't at risk of dehydrating.

Precautions

Remember your center of gravity shifts as your pregnancy progresses, so take that into account as you exercise.

If you find yourself feeling dizzy or otherwise unwell during exercise, you should stop immediately and arrange to see your medical practitioner as soon as possible if the symptoms continue. It maybe nothing but its better to be safe than sorry as far as you and baby are concerned.

Swimming

One of the best forms of exercise for pregnant women is swimming. As your bump grows you will find you can move in the water much more easily than on land and you won't feel the weight. The water supports your growing ‘bump' and can help to considerably reduce your lower back pain. Just being in the water is very soothing and relaxing even if you don't swim that much.

Most pools offer aqua-fit classes for varying levels of fitness and abilities. So why not join a regular aqua fit class for the duration of your pregnancy, or even better a Mums-to-Be class. That way you will get to know other pregnant women and get the benefits of a good exercise routine with the weightlessness of the water. Many women find that they are able to enjoy swimming right up until a few days before the birth

Yoga & Ti Chi

A lot of pregnant women enjoy yoga and ti chi during their pregnancy. However, you need to make sure that if you are not taking a specialist class for pregnant women, you inform your instructor that you are pregnant and how far along you are.

Not all yoga positions and poses are suitable for pregnant women.

Pre-Natal Classes

Last but not least, don't forget those breathing classes to help you with your birth preparation for an easier labor.