An exercise program for a pregnant woman? Yes, a sensible fitness program designed with a doctor’s approval is a very good idea, indeed! A routine, moderate exercise program can help prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy, making a woman feel better and stay healthier.
Fitness programs for pregnant women are designed to help a woman build stamina for the delivery room. Besides strengthening muscles, the increased oxygen to the internal organs will definitely be appreciated during delivery. Just imagine how your heart and lungs will thank you during labor! It is also known that increased blood flow during exercise affects the brain’s activity, as well. You will be more alert and have a sense of well-being as your brain takes in all that healthy oxygen you’re providing it during your fitness routine. All this is essential to a healthy body and mind during the delivery, recovery, and for a long time after.
Most pregnant women worry about postpartum depression. Although there is no cure that we know of yet, staying physically active and following a routine exercise program has been shown to lessen the severity. Increased blood flow to the brain improves our mood, thought process, and alertness. Generally, our sense of well-being is improved. Also, many women choose exercise programs that are done with other women, in a group setting, which improves the social networking among women who share your experiences. This, too, will reduce stress levels which often contribute to the fear of postpartum depression.
Once you have consulted your physician, choose your program. Some programs require equipment, and some programs just require a good pair of shoes. Either way, choose the fitness program or programs that appeal to you. Here are a few thoughts:
Walking – With a good pair of walking shoes and comfortable clothing, a simple 30 minute walk can do wonders for your body, mind, and soul. Be sure to walk in a well lit area where the surface is smooth and even. Some pregnant women prefer walking early mornings in a mall or at a school track. Walk with someone or in a public place in case you need to ask for help.
Swimming – Some pregnant women say swimming feels good because the whole water-gravity thing does its trick relieving the pressure on their spine, hips, and, oh yes, bladder. Even if you just float and move your legs and arms, this simple exercise may be enough to keep your muscles toned and your blood pumping. The resistance of the water is all you need for a full body workout, but special pool weights can be used as well.
Low Impact Exercises – Fitness programs that feature low or no impact exercises can be just what you’re looking for. Programs like Pilates often use moves that are perfect for a pregnant woman. Of course, Yoga has been used for centuries to help keep a pregnant woman fit and flexible. Look for sources like videos and books that feature specific programs designed for pregnant women and give those a try first. Be sure to ask your doctor if this type of exercise program is appropriate for you.
Sports As Exercise – There are some sports that may be acceptable with your doctor’s permission. Fishing, for instance, may be safe, and golf, perhaps. But, the sports that rely on a fast pitch, or running, blocking, or tackling, should be avoided. Don’t even think about walking onto a racquetball court or tennis court. You can warm the bench at the next baseball game. You’ve got someone relying on a safe ride for the next few months. Once the baby has arrived safely, then you can suit up. Until then, enjoy your favorite fast pitch baseball game from the bleachers.
Once you have cleared an exercise program with your doctor, it’s time to pick out your program and begin. Many women choose several different programs right from the start because they know that exercising to the same video or walking the same route every day will get boring, and boredom leads to avoidance. You may want to walk one day and dance to the oldies the next day. Mix your exercise videos up a bit and have a little fun with it!
Exercise not only builds stamina, strengthens, and increases flexibility, but it feeds your mind some much needed oxygen which in turn reduces stress and provides that wonderful state of well-being. Your child deserves a healthy mother, both physically and emotionally. Give your doctor a call today and set up an appointment to discuss your fitness program. Then, pick out a couple exercises to begin with and get started. You and your baby both deserve the best fitness possible!
Pregnant and Want to Stay Fit? Check out FunExerciseVideos.com. For the latest trends in pregnancy fitness, visit us and you’ll find pregnancy pilates dvds at a price you can afford. Have fun while you get fit – what a great idea!
