If you pregnant, it is natural that you will have several questions in your mind about pregnancy symptoms, exercise, diet and what to do and what not to do while pregnant. Moreover, the first thing that comes to your mind is whether it is safe to exercise during pregnancy, as you want to stay fit and in shape but without compromising on the health of your unborn baby.
Myth Broken
It is a myth that exercises can be harmful to the unborn as well as the mother. In fact, physical movements are beneficial for both the mother and the child, as it not only reduces physical discomfort, but also reduces stress and labor length. Here is a list of general frequently asked questions with answers about exercise during pregnancy:
Is It Safe To Do Workouts?
Working out while being pregnant is not only safe but also healthy, provided you do not have any complications during the pregnancy period. However, it is recommended to consult your doctor or mid-wives and take their approval.
Why Is Exercise Necessary?
As per a research, working out or mild exercise during pregnancy helps in reducing backaches and swelling of ankles, and constipation, which are some of the most common problems faced by pregnant women. In addition, it also gives energy and makes you feel fresh.
Does Exercise Help During Pregnancy?
The answer is ‘Yes’. Exercising promotes muscles, strength, and endurance, thereby, helping the mother to carry the weight gained during this period.
I Do A Rigorous Workout. Is It Safe?
According to a study in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, healthy, well-conditioned women who exercised before pregnancy may continue to do so throughout pregnancy, without compromising their baby’s health or development.
For How Long Should I Exercise?
The workout should be approximately 45 minutes long and should include warm-ups, the actual workout and cool downs.
What Precautions Do I Need To Take While Exercising, As I Had Never Worked Out Before?
Talk to doctor or midwife, and as far as you have the permission to proceed from them, you can engage yourself in mild exercise, like walking or swimming.
Immediately After The Birth Of My Child, What Exercises Can I Do To Regain My Shape?
Make sure you are physically ready before you start with the process of regaining you shape. Once you think you are fit to start with the exercise, begin with stretching and firming exercises and then gradually adding to the second set of exercises.
Just remember that you need to follow normal exercise safety aspects like, drinking lots of water, stopping immediately if you feel any pain etc. Most importantly, remember to speak to your doctor before starting any exercise regime.