Pregnancy Advices – Taking Regular Exercise
Getting out for a brisk walk, a swim at your local pool or joining a yoga class can have lots of benefits for you and your baby. Regular exercise will boost your energy levels, help you cope with tiredness and build muscle tone and strength, helping you carry the weight you gain during pregnancy. You’ll feel happier, sleep better and gradually build up the stamina you need to get you through labor.
Some sports are obviously better avoided during pregnancy, such as high-impact aerobics, contact sports and sports like horse riding where safety can be an issue. Check with your midwife or GP if you are unsure about your preferred choice of exercise and stop when your body tells you to.
Which exercise?
• Swimming is great all-round exercise and especially useful in late pregnancy as the water takes some of your weight.
• Walking is simple to fit into your daily routine, and towards the end of pregnancy can help position the baby ready for birth.
• Yoga is good for increasing flexibility and learning breathing and concentration techniques that are useful during labor.
• Pelvic floor exercises are a must. A good tip is to do a batch every time you wash your hands after going to the loo or while you’re travelling to and from work. Despite what you think, no one will know what you’re up to.
