Is Working Out During Pregnancy Beneficial?

Physical exercise is bodily activity that improves or maintains physical fitness and overall health and wellness. There are many benefits to exercising during pregnancy including decreasing some of the common discomforts, and it can even help prepare your body for labor and delivery.

Is exercising during pregnancy safe? In most healthy pregnancies it is usually recommended. If you were physically active before pregnancy, you can remain active during pregnancy. You should be able to exercise doing what you were already doing with some modifications depending on how you feel and as your belly grows you may have to make more modifications. Always listen to your body. It is not the time to try something new, try to get into shape, or exercise for weight loss. And always consult with your physician about your physical activity.

There are several benefits to exercising during pregnancy.
-It may reduce backaches, constipation, bloating, and swelling.
-It may prevent, or treat gestational diabetes.
-Increases energy.
-Improves mood.
-Improves posture.
-Promotes muscle tone, strength, and endurance.
-Improves sleep.
-Keeps you fit during pregnancy.
-May improve labor.
-Will make it easier to get back in shape after delivery.
-May help you lose weight after delivery.

Not all exercises are safe during pregnancy. Avoid anything that is high impact, that could put you at risk for falling, or anything with jarring movements. There are also exercises that are beneficial during pregnancy such squatting and pelvic tilts. These can help during labor and delivery. If you are not used to getting physical activity, walking is a good exercise to start with. And as always, check with your physician before doing any physical exercise to know what is safe and what is unsafe for your pregnancy.