Children whose mothers worked out during pregnancy have higher IQ

Just in case you need another example to workout during pregnancy, research is showing that women who work out for just 30 minutes a day while pregnant have children who score 8 points higher than children from mothers who were sedentary. Combine exercise with at least 9 months of breastfeeding and the mother can raiser her child’s IQ an average of 14 points. This is wonderful news for mothers who wish to give their children the best start at life.

In addition to higher IQ in children, prenatal exercise prepares the body for labor with less risk for C-section resulting in less trauma for mother and baby during childbirth. Regular involvement in exercises such as walking, swimming and yoga help to release endorphins, strengthen muscles and improve circulation. Working out during pregnancy has also been attributed to improved self-image, reduced stress, better sleep and regaining muscle tone after the antenatal period.

The frequency of exercise is more important than the intensity of the workout so unless advised by your healthcare practitioner to avoid exercising it is recommended during all three trimesters. If you are looking to keep you and your baby healthy during your pregnancy diet and exercise are the key to prenatal wellbeing.

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, San Diego Pregnancy Fitness Examiner

Victoria Moore, a natural health blogger at Yogimami.com, is a yoga instructor and work from home wife and mother of two children in San Diego, CA. She is passionate about holistic living and sharing information for how to live a healthier lifestyle and has had articles featured on such sites as...

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