Pregnancy is an exciting time for many women. It can also be a time of many physical and emotional changes. One of the most common concerns for women during pregnancy is how to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay active without harming the growing fetus. Luckily, there are many benefits to working out while pregnant. With the right precautions, exercise can be a safe and effective way to promote a healthy pregnancy. If you know me, then you now this was my jam. I was all about the belly and barbell life. So, let’s talk benefits.
Improved cardio health
Working out during pregnancy can help improve cardiovascular health by increasing blood flow, reducing the risk of blood clots and improving heart function. This can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, which can be a concern during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and changes in blood pressure. Plus, you’re gonna want your heart in good health when it’s time to push.
Increased energy levels
Exercise can help boost energy levels and reduce fatigue during pregnancy. Pregnancy can be a tiring and exhausting experience, especially during the first and third trimesters. Let’s face it, tying your shoe in the third trimester may be a no go. Exercise can help boost energy levels by increasing circulation, oxygen delivery, and endorphins, which can help reduce feelings of fatigue and improve overall mood and energy.
Reduced back pain
Back pain is a common complaint during pregnancy. As the weight of the growing baby increases, a lot of pressure is on the lower back. Working out can help strengthen the muscles in the back and core. Make sure to properly embrace your core before and during every movement. Safety is key. The goal here is to reduce the risk of back pain and improve your posture. Issa win, win!
Improved mood
Working out has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety and improve mood during pregnancy. Pregnancy can be a stressful and emotionally challenging time. Let’s face it, pregnant women can always use a mood boost. Working out has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety and improve mood. This is due to the release of endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters, and the opportunity for social interaction and community building that exercise can provide.
Better sleep
Pregnancy can disrupt sleep patterns (Sleep, what’s that)? Particularly in the later stages of pregnancy, discomfort and frequent trips to the bathroom can interfere with sleep. Exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality by reducing stress and anxiety, increasing relaxation, and promoting a healthy sleep-wake cycle. If nothing else, a good workout may just wear you out enough to a point of exhaustion. It can be like taking melatonin without the headache.
Better postpartum recovery
Women who exercise during pregnancy may experience a better postpartum recovery and have an easier time losing weight after giving birth. Working out during pregnancy can help strengthen the muscles used during labor and delivery (yes please). This can help speed up recovery after childbirth. In addition, maintaining an active lifestyle during pregnancy can help reduce excess weight gain, which can make it easier to return to a healthy weight after giving birth.
Tips for Working Out While Pregnant
While exercise is generally safe during pregnancy, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure the safety of both mommy and baby. Here are some tips for working out while pregnant:
- Consult with your doctor: Before starting any exercise routine, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe for you and your baby.
- Start slow: If you are new to exercise or have not been active for a while, it is important to start slow and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
- Choose low-impact exercises: If you are new to this, low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga, are generally safe and effective during pregnancy.
- Stay hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated during exercise, especially during pregnancy. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workouts.
- Avoid overheating: It is important to avoid overheating during exercise, as this can be harmful to your little one. Avoid exercising in hot and humid conditions, and take breaks as needed to cool down.
- Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body and do not push yourself too hard. Stop exercising if you experience any pain, dizziness, or other symptoms.
Takeaway
Working out while pregnant can provide many benefits for both mama and baby, but it is important to take certain precautions to ensure safety. By properly executing these suggestions, you can safely and effectively incorporate exercise into your pregnancy routine. If you were about to run a marathon, you would train for months right? So think about it. You are about to endure what may be the most important workout challenge of your life. Don’t you want to be prepared? Forget training for the apocalypse, training for delivering a baby is where it’s at.
That’s It. That’s All Yall.
J. Bai
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. I’m just sharing my thoughts and experiences. As always, if you need medical advice, please consult your doctor.
Leave a Reply