SAFE EXERCISES IN PREGNANCY
Exercise has plenty of benefits for your pregnancy. Do not let the fatigue you feel turn you into a couch potato. Pregnancy exercise will boost your moods, give you better sleep and reduce body aches. Most importantly, it prepares you for childbirth by strengthening your muscles and building endurance. It also makes it easier to get back to shape after delivery.
What about those who have already chosen to deliver through C-section and thus will not have to push? Can they be excused from exercise? Well, no matter the delivery method you choose, you need to keep your body toned enough to carry the extra weight. We will get to the details of Caesarian Section in a short while. For now, let us see what exercises are best for you; shall we?
- Walking: This is probably the best cardiovascular exercise when you’re pregnant. If you’re one of those common citizens who walk everywhere, lucky you. If you’re used to driving or boarding a bus right at your doorstep, you will need to change your lifestyle. Spend at least 40 minutes daily walking briskly. If you’re straining, walk on a flat area avoiding hills or bumps.
- Swimming: This is one of the most enjoyable pregnancy exercises. You do not have to be a pro to enjoy the benefits of swimming. Use floaters if you must. Swimming exercises all the muscle groups without causing any strain. Being in water gives you a feeling of being weightless, which is a sure welcome after all the weight your joints have to carry.
- Dancing: Pop in your favourite tunes and dance away right in your living room. You can also attend dance sessions if you enjoy dancing as a group. Keep your moves moderate and comfortable, avoiding leaps, jumps or any other that can strain you. Dancing boosts the heart’s pumping ensuring adequate supply of blood to the baby.
- Yoga: Forget the chanting and the religious co-relations; yoga is a relaxing exercise that will help you remain flexible. The accompanying slow music also relaxes and refreshes the mind.
- Aerobics: You can take part in low impact aerobics that will leave your heart stronger and muscles toned.
The secret to pregnancy exercise is learning to listen to your body. You should remain comfortable and avoid straining too much. Should you experience any significant pain in the process, slow down and consult your doctor. Choose a qualified instructor if any, one who is well versed with pregnancy exercise.