If you are pregnant, you need to get plenty of exercise. Exercising will help you keep your stress under control and stay in shape. Go over this article for some useful tips.
Going for walks is the best form of exercise for expecting mothers. Walking allows you to get some fresh air, relax and do some thinking. Find a safe place where you can go for walks away from noises and pollution if possible. Keep your walks short if you have swollen feet, and make sure you wear some comfortable shoes. You should go for walks during your lunch break at work or at night before going to bed.
If you live near a swimming pool or a lake, you should go swimming as often as possible. Swimming is a great way to exercise all your muscles while giving you the sensation to be weightless. If you are dealing with back pain because the weight you have been gaining, spending some time in the water will make you feel a lot better. Some swimming pools even offer aerobic classes for expecting mothers.
Join a prenatal yoga class. Yoga is a great way to stretch your muscles, increase your flexibility and find inner peace. If your hormones cause you to feel stressed or if you feel anxious at the idea of becoming a parent, yoga is the ideal activity for you. You should also try pilates, tai chi or qigong if you can find classes in your area. Contact the instructor first to find out if the class will be adapted to your condition.
You can do some simple exercises at home to stay in shape. Always stretch carefully before and after your short workout sessions and do not hesitate to skip a session if you are experiencing pains or discomfort. You could do some Kegel exercises by contracting your pelvic muscles and holding for a few seconds. This exercise will make labor a lot easier. Squats, crunches and weight training will help you stay in shape.
It is important that you exercise at your own rhythm. Do some simple exercises for at least thirty minutes a day besides going for a walk or swimming. Going to a prenatal yoga class once or twice a week is enough. You should not use exercise to lose weight, build some muscle mass or reach any other goal. You should focus on your pregnancy instead of putting pressure on yourself by trying to transform your body by exercising. If you find it hard to stay motivated and exercise regularly, try different activities until you find something you enjoy. Ask your partner or some friends to exercise with you or to become a coach to help you stay motivated throughout your pregnancy.
Exercising during your pregnancy will help you avoid complications, make the delivery a lot easier and help you get back in shape quickly after you have your baby. You should find exercises you enjoy, and do not let exercise become a source of stress.