Pregnancy And Fitness – Why Should I Exercise?
An exercise program for a pregnant woman? Yes, a sensible fitness program designed with a doctor’s approval is a very good idea, indeed! A routine, moderate exercise program can help prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy, making a woman feel better and stay healthier.
A routine fitness program is essential to the health and well being of your body and mind. Along with improving muscle tone, increased oxygen to your organs will also improve stamina during delivery – think about what your heart and lungs will be doing during labor. Not only will your heart and lungs appreciate the extra oxygen, but so will your brain. Increased oxygen to the brain helps you remain alert and have a general sense of well being. During the delivery, in the recovery room, and at home, your body and mind will appreciate all you’ve done to improve your physical and emotional health.
Postpartum depression is a fear that many pregnant women share. Physical exercise, paired with an active involvement with other women, can help lessen the severity and fear that surrounds this sort of depression. A good exercise program will increase oxygen to the brain which will result in increased alertness, improved cognitive thought, and an overall feeling of well being. Choosing an exercise program that keeps you in touch with other pregnant women is a great way to watch out for each other and calm this particular fear.
Start thinking about what sort of fitness program you would like to do. Now, call your doctor and set up an appointment, because you won’t start any exercise program without consulting your doctor first. Once you get the “okay” choose an exercise program or two that you think you’ll like, and begin. The following are a few suggestions and guidelines:
Take A Walk – You’ll need a good, no, make that a great, pair of walking shoes and comfortable clothes. Most pregnant women can tolerate about a 20 to 30 minute walk every other day, but consult your doctor. Walking, whether in a mall, on a track, or on a safe sidewalk, can do the body and mind wonders. Be sure to consider where you’re walking before you begin. You need a well lit area that is safe. Also, walk with other people to ensure your safety should you need assistance.
Swim – You know that whole water and gravity thing? Well, some pregnant women swear by swimming for exercise because it lightens the load they’ve been carrying around on their hips, spine, back, and of course, their bladder. Being suspended in the water allows easier movement and the resistance of the water is usually enough to get a good workout if you paddle around with your legs and arms. You can also do specific exercises designed for the water, and use special pool weights, too.
Yoga and Pilates – These low impact style of exercises can be very helpful. Be sure to follow the beginners instructions very carefully and avoid any movement that seems stressful. Take some time to search the extensive exercise videos and books that feature programs specifically designed for pregnant women. Just be sure to consult with your physician before beginning this, as well as any, exercise program.
Sports – Participating in sports can be considered a fitness program. However, some sports should be avoided during pregnancy, such as anything that involves a fast ball, sprinting, and tackling. For instance, baseball, tennis, racquetball, and football should be observed from the sidelines for the time being for obvious reasons – you don’t want to be hit by a ball or knocked down. Once your baby is safely born, you can get back in gear. But, until then, you’ve got a little passenger that needs a safe ride.
It’s time to choose a couple exercise programs. I say a couple because most women get bored doing the same exercise over and over. And, being pregnant, you may have to alter your program as the months go by. One month you may just love to get out and walk, but towards the end, you may find it very stressful on your back and need to change to a no-impact exercise. Moving to a belly dancing video during the first half of your pregnancy may be really fun, but stretching out in yoga positions may feel better during the second half. Mix up your routine a little, once you’ve gotten your doctor’s approval, again!
Exercise is always good for you, but it’s crucial when you’re pregnant. Both you and your baby deserve the best, most physically and emotionally healthy person you can be. Exercise to build strength and stamina, but also to relieve stress and feel good. Call your doctor today to set up an appointment to discuss your exercise options. Pick out a couple fitness programs to try and get started! You deserve it, and so does your baby!
Tina Titas is a columnist for FunExerciseVideos.com. For the latest in pregnancy fitness, visit us and you’ll find safe pregnancy workout dvds at a great price. Get fit and have fun – what a great combination!
