Mommy's Little Heart

Exercising Tips for Pregnant Women

Before starting any type of fitness program, please consult your physician. Let him or her know what type of exercises you plan on doing, and whether they are safe for you.

The earlier in the pregnancy a woman gets regular exercise, the more comfortable she is likely to feel throughout the pregnancy. Regular exercise will help set yourself up for an easier labor and delivery. Getting fit while you are pregnant means you will strengthen your heart and lungs, as well as tone your arms, chest, abdomen, butt, hips, and legs. Stretching after your workouts and on your days off will help your flexibility.

Pregnant Women Exercising on Exercise Balls

Working Your Heart

Running, walking, aerobics, pilates, stair climbing machine, or an elliptical trainer are great. They require you to support all your weight. During your pregnancy, your joints are loosening, and your center of gravity is also shifting. Only do what you know you can. Now isn't the time to try a routine that is too demanding on your body.

Strengthening Your Muscles

Weightlifting and yoga can help improve your muscle tone and flexibility, which comes in handy during labor and delivery. Weightlifting machines would be preferable to free weights, which runs a chance of you accidentally dropping weights on your abdomen. Avoid using heavy weights, which can cause injury to your joints and ligaments. If you use free weights, do so with the help of a trainer or a skilled friend. When lifting weights, be sure to inhale and exhale properly.

Gowns

Onesies

During pregnancy, many women tend to have a hard time sleeping at night and experience extreme fatigue during the day. Having a regular fitness routine can help beat these problems, allowing you to sleep more soundly at night and have more energy throughout the day.