Exercising is a great thing to do when you’re pregnant for many reasons. But, let us tell you what activities are safe for you and your baby and which are not. Activitities to put on hold Know when to stop Safe exercises Back to Look Good!...

Activities to put on hold

High risk sports – with any potential for falling or getting short of breath. Save scuba diving, horseback riding and water skiing for after your pregnancy.

Biking – is not a dangerous thing to do, though it should be pursued more cautiously during your pregnancy, especially in your second and third trimester.

Running – is not a good idea if you have never done it before your pregnancy. Walking is a safer option for beginners.

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Know when to stop

Exercising for 20 minutes at a time, three days a week should be enough to keep you healthy and looking good. Stop when you feel you should, slow down when you can’t breathe or talk comfortably.

Regular exercise is safer than occasional bursts of exercise and remember to always warm up gradually and make sure you cool down properly after exercise especially by stretching.

Eat and drink for two! You will need about 300 extra calories a day and it is very important to drink enough fluids. Always keep a bottle of water and wear comfortable clothing when exercising in hot weather.

Avoid lying flat on your back after the first trimester. This position keeps blood from flowing to your brain and uterus, and can make you dizzy, short of breath, or nauseated. Keep moving by switching positions or walking in place. Standing motionless for long periods, when you're lifting weights or doing yoga poses, can also decrease blood flow to the uterus.

Always call your doctor if you experience one or more of the following symptoms during exercising:

• pain anywhere, but especially in your back or pelvic region
• shortness of breath
• dizziness or feeling faint
• excessive fatigue
• difficulty walking
• contractions
• fluid leaking from your vagina
• decreased fetal movement
• rapid heartbeat while at rest

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Safe exercises

• Walking is the perfect exercise if you didn’t work out before your pregnancy.
• Swimming is a great form of exercise because you use most muscles in your body and puts little strain on your joints.
• Fitness as a low-impact workout with other expecting women will not only strengthen your heart, lungs and muscles but will also help you make some new friends.
• Yoga join a class to keep fit, healthy, stress free and youthful.

All these activities can be done with a friend, no matter her being pregnant too, or not. This way you can keep an eye on each other and have a fun way to stay healthy and in shape.

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