Getting regular exercise is a crucial component in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, determining which exercises are safe during pregnancy can be difficult. As you read this article, you'll learn three tips for staying active during pregnancy.
Mild Weight Training
While strenuous, high intensity exercise is not often suggested during pregnancy, there are plenty of ways to stay in shape during pregnancy. During the first trimester, there is more flexibility with exercise options, including with weights. Medical experts urge pregnant women not to push their limits too hard because straining and muscle tears can occur. However, basic bicep curls, dumbbell presses, leg extensions, and other mild weight lifting exercises are safe enough to be continued during the early part of your pregnancy.
Yoga
Yoga has always been associated with flexibility, balance, and relaxation. Prenatal yoga is especially recommended for those expecting because it works specifically to help prepare you for labor. Similarly to regular yoga classes, prenatal yoga classes emphasize correct breathing to further assist in baby delivery preparation. Prenatal yoga also focuses on exercises that can prevent and eliminate common physical side effects pregnant women face like lower back pain, neck tension, digestive issues, and more.
Brisk Walking
While it may seem simple, walking is an excellent form of exercise, particularly during the trimester when energy levels are lower and everyday activities become challenging. Walking with hand-held weights, that are no more than five pounds, while moving arms can also increase the amount of calories burned and create a more efficient, satisfying workout. Brisk walking promotes heart health, which is critical to a healthy delivery and can even burn as many calories as jogging can. Walking, like most forms of exercise, also releases endorphins, which boosts your mood and can work to prevent post pregnancy issues like postpartum depression says most gynecologist. Daytona Beach gynecologist say that a daily walking routine is also great because you can jump right back into after the baby is born by simply bringing the stroller, which creates a more strenuous workout.
Clearly, there are various exercise options during each trimester of pregnancy. As long as you listen to your body and avoiding pushing your limits, you'll be able to stay in shape during pregnancy. Whether you participate in mild weight training, prenatal yoga, or brisk walking, you'll certainly enjoy an active lifestyle while pregnant.