Exercising while pregnant, as long as you do so safely, is highly beneficial for both you, the mommy-to-be, and your unborn baby. Here are 7 Important Fitness Tips For Pregnant Women before beginning or continuing any exercise program.
1. Get Your Doctor’s Approval
Although encouraged, not all expectant moms can workout during pregnancy. Each woman and pregnancy is different, so it is best to consult your healthcare provider first. This makes sure you are not putting yourself or the baby at risk. Your doctor can also help you choose safe exercise activities.
2. Warm Up First!
To avoid injuries and post-workout pains, warm up. Brisk walking and jogging in place are two great exercises to prepare your muscles and joints for the workout and gradually raise your heart rate safely.
3. Maintain Your Core Body Temperature
Being pregnant means your metabolic rate and blood flow is increased, making you feel warmer than usual. Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing, and when you feel dizzy, are over sweating, and/or short of breath, rest, move to a cooler area, and/or take a shower. If your body temperature gets too high, your baby’s health is in jeopardy.
4. Stay Hydrated
While you might hate frequent trips to the restroom, drinking tons of fluids and staying hydrated it is extra important to keep your body cool. Make it a habit to drink lots of fluid before, during, and after your routine.
5. Cool Down
Allow your heart rate to return to normal after your workout by walking in place and with some pregnancy-friendly stretching.
6. Eat Extra Calories
You need extra energy for your pre-natal fitness routine. This means additional 300 to 500 calories per day. You can get this from consuming fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, and whole grains. This also helps the baby get the necessary amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals he/she needs.
7. Be Consistent
Making exercise part of your daily/weekly routine, with the approval of your healthcare provider, helps prepare you for childbirth, reduce pregnancy discomfort, and lower pregnancy complications, among other things.
I hope these tips are helpful on your journey as a mommy-to-be! Also, watch out for my video post about ways to use a stability ball while pregnant, coming soon!
Xoxo
Bridjet
