Pregnancy and exercise

Exercise is good for all stages of pregnancy.

Many women think of pregnancy as a time to relax and indulge a bit; after all, making a baby from scratch is hard work. And while this special time can benefit from a few extra naps it’s not a good time to turn into a couch potato. Mom’s to be should take greater responsibility in their health to ensure optimum health for their little one. 
 
We all know how important it is to maintain a healthy diet during pregnancy but most women do not exercise while pregnant. Studies show that moderate exercise can help prospective parents suffer less aches and pains, decrease fatigue, and control weight gain. What’s more, a regular fitness routine can make for a shorter, less strenuous labor for you and baby!

While it is important to gain weight during pregnancy it’s just as important to make sure new moms aren’t putting on too much weight. Many studies show that babies born to overweight mothers can have increased risk of child hood obesity and other health problems. Adding a light activity such as walking most days of the week can do wonders for controlling how much weight gain occurs during pregnancy.

Always consult a physician before engaging in pre-natal physical activity; especially if you were sedentary before pregnancy. Stick to exercises that are low impact like walking, pre-natal yoga or swimming and always monitor your body. Discontinue your work out if you experience any bleeding, dizziness, headache, chest pain or decreased fetal movement and after the first trimester avoid exercises that require lying on your back as this position may lessen blood flow to your baby.

To get started visit ohbabyfitness.com or call 678-528-1390 for more info on where you can locate classes. Oh baby! Fitness in Decatur, GA has over 20 class locations in the Atlanta metro area.