17 Aug 2018 | 3 min Read
Dr Bhavin Khambati
Author | 2 Articles
Exercising during pregnancy is definitely a good option since it offers many health benefits. It is also completely safe to engage in some kind of physical activity during pregnancy in the recommended amount. It has been shown that regular and mild exercise during pregnancy can help prevent complications at the time of delivery. It may also help you have a shorter labor.
Regular and safe exercises during pregnancy can help in getting a good night’s sleep as well as reducing depression that may occur due to hormonal changes. It also helps in maintaining the optimum weight and preventing fatigue.
Your health practitioner will recommend some kind of physical activity unless there are conditions which will prevent you from exercising during pregnancy.
Yes, jogging during pregnancy is safe. But you have to make sure that you do not jog for more than 15 minutes. You must stay hydrated if you run or jog.
Safe workouts while pregnant include tummy strengthening exercises which help strengthen the abdominal muscles and ease the back pain.
You can also do pelvic tilt exercises to maintain your posture. To do these, stand with your shoulders and back against the wall. Relax your knees and try to flatten your back against the wall. Hold the position for a few seconds and then release. You can repeat this exercise 6-8 times.
Pelvic floor exercises are among safe workouts while pregnant. These are also beneficial as they help strengthen your pelvic muscles, which in turn reduce stress incontinence during and after pregnancy. These exercises are recommended to all pregnant women.
Although it is safe to go gymming during pregnancy, you must be cautious that you do not use any heavy equipment. Be sure to tell your gym instructor how much exercise you are comfortable with. Many gyms offer special classes for pregnant women, which are safe and beneficial. The most common ones include Pilates, yoga, water aerobics, walking on a treadmill, or riding a stationary bike.
It is recommended that you avoid cycling during pregnancy as this could increase the risk of a fall or injury.
Also read: Recommended Exercises For A Normal Delivery
A
Suggestions offered by doctors on BabyChakra are of advisory nature i.e., for educational and informational purposes only. Content posted on, created for, or compiled by BabyChakra is not intended or designed to replace your doctor's independent judgment about any symptom, condition, or the appropriateness or risks of a procedure or treatment for a given person.