Exercising During Pregnancy

exercise during pregnancy Women who exercise during pregnancy report having:

e="font-size: 10pt; font-family: verdana">• greater endurance during pregnancy and labor,
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• greater ease in carrying the extra weight of their growing babies and
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• good posture as a result of strong, flexible muscles.

e="font-size: 10pt; font-family: verdana">Exercising also helps prevent or minimize common problems, such as back and hip pain, strained ligaments, constipation, prolapsed organs and incontinence resulting from stress on the musculoskeletal system.
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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends the following guidelines for exercise during and after pregnancy:
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• Exercise regularly (three times per week).
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• Avoid exercises that require lying on your back after the first trimester.
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• Modify the intensity of your regular, pre-pregnancy workout.
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• Eat adequately and do not exercise to lose weight during pregnancy.
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• Don’t get overheated. Drink plenty of liquids.
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• Avoid beginning a vigorous exercise routine during the first four to six weeks postpartum.
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Consult your obstetrician or midwife about your exercise program both prior to and during your pregnancy.
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Strengthen Your Muscles
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The two major sets of muscles to work on when you’re pregnant are:

• Abdominal muscles – These allow you to maintain correct posture and alignment and reduce strain on the ligaments and pelvic-floor muscles.

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