Exercising While Expecting: How To Stay Safe
Many pregnant women are under the impression that they should not exercise. This is, quite simply, not true; it is actually very important to remain in shape throughout your pregnancy. Not only will labor go more smoothly, but you also cut down on your chances of having both high blood pressure and gestational diabetes.
Instead of debating whether or not you should work out, instead ask yourself a few crucial questions about your method of exercise. For instance, is running okay? How about yoga? Should you work out inside or outside? In general, remember that you should be able to continue doing most of the exercises that you did before you became pregnant. However, you do need to be cautious in certain situations, such as if you are jogging after a light rain or going for a walk after a fresh snowfall. The following tips will help you remain both safe and active as you exercise.
As you begin to gain weight, your center of gravity will change. As a result, you may find yourself tripping more often or bumping into objects in your home. That is why it is important to only engage in exercises that you know very well. Taking a new yoga class, for example, may not be the best idea. Stick with things you know or turn to an exercise like walking, which is low-impact.
Do not exercise outdoors if you are concerned that the weather may impact your work out. For example, a light rain can be quite dangerous if you are out walking and slip on a few leaves in the walkway. If there is any question, simply go walk at the mall instead, or use a video in the comfort of your own home. You can also go up and down the stairs in your home a few times.
It is quite easy to get overheated when you are pregnant, and that can harm your unborn child. When you are warm, your baby’s temperature goes up as well. Therefore, stay inside on particularly hot days. It just is not worth the risk to your child. If you are concerned about staying active in the summer months, join a gym and take a few classes; just make sure you have some familiarity with what you are doing.
Exercise at a moderate level. You should be able to talk while exercising; if you can’t finish your sentence, you are pushing things too hard. Remember that this is not a competition; you are working out to help with your weight gain, assist in your labor and make it easier for you to get back in shape after the baby comes.
One of the most common myths associated with pregnancy is that you can’t work out. Exercise can actually do a lot to help you throughout the time that you are expecting, but you must be safety-oriented throughout the process. The tips included above can help you establish a routine that works best for you.
