One of the biggest misconceptions about pregnancy is that it is a state of confinement and it is very natural to gain weight.
The reality is that a sedentary lifestyle can result in a lot of problems during pregnancy, during the labor and in the postpartum period.
Exercises during pregnancy are so important that they can even prevent serious illnesses like gestational diabetes and other similar unwanted complications of pregnancy.
Advantages of exercise during pregnancy Some major advantages of exercise during pregnancy are that you can control your weight gain, you can maintain your body strong enough to carry the baby, the labor is easy, shortened and relatively stress free and the post delivery recovery is fast.
The spine is well toned for better posture and overall muscle strength and endurance is improved.
Working out during pregnancy keeps you away from constipation, bloating and swelling.
Additionally, by exercising you feel productive and emotionally stable.
Do's and Don'ts of exercise during pregnancy Extensive studies have shown the safety of walking, swimming, cycling and aerobic exercises during pregnancy.
Running, racket sports and strength training should be done in moderation.
You should stay away from sports like snow skiing, scuba diving and contact sports, for example ice hockey, soccer and basketball etc.
If you were exercising before you became pregnant, you can continue you routine if it's light on your body.
Definitely you should consult your physician just to make sure that everything is fine.
There are certain conditions of the pregnancy when you will be told by your doctor not to do any exercises during pregnancy.
If you don't consult your doctor, you may not only harm yourself but may risk the life of your baby as well.
Pilates is a physical fitness program which focuses on the core postural muscles.
This system is highly valuable and beneficial form of exercise during pregnancy but should be done under the supervision of an expert.
When you must stop exercising You should stop working out if you experience any virginal bleeding, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, headache, muscle weakness, pain and swelling of calf, uterine contractions and decreased fetal movements.
These warning signs should always be kept in mind during the exercises in pregnancy.
If you notice any of these, you must consult your physician to further investigate the cause.
So keep in mind all the pros and cons of exercise during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant, don't think you are confined to your bed or sofa.
Consult you doctor and start a light workout.
Your pregnancy will be smooth, your labor will be easy and you will recover faster after the pregnancy keeping your body in shape and your spirits high so that you can enjoy the product of your pregnancy that is your baby.