  ongratulations if you're expecting a baby. Maybe you're wondering if being pregnant will affect your workout routines or whether you should continue them at all. The basic rule when it comes to pregnancy and exercise is moderation.
Pregnancy changes a woman's body in ways that must be considered when exercising. You're at greater risk of injury when you're pregnant and exercise -- even if you've always been active and are very fit. For example, your increased weight places a greater strain on your lower back and hips. It also changes your center of gravity and affects your balance. During exercise, you could easily fall or strain your back. Also, your connective tissue becomes softer and more easily stretched during pregnancy. That's why it's important not to deeply flex or extend your joints -- including your spine. 
Regular exercise during pregnancy helps reduce backaches, constipation and swelling, helps strengthen your muscles for labor and delivery, and gives you more energy.Lots of old ideas about strenuous exercise during pregnancy have been disproved in recent years. If you've been active before your pregnancy, you probably can continue to be -- within reason. It's not wise to push yourself the way you may have before pregnancy. Also,
Exercise under your doctor's supervision and follow these healthy guidelines.1. Exercise regularly. Avoid jerky movements and never overdo it. 2. Warm up with some light aerobic exercise and then stretch before you begin more intense exercise. 3. Don't exercise to the point of fatigue or exhaustion. 4. Cool down by slowly decreasing your heart rate, then stretching gently. 5. Drink lots of liquid and avoid exercising in hot, humid weather. 6. Tailor your program to your fitness level. 7. Stop the activity and consult your doctor if unusual symptoms such as bleeding, pain, irregular heartbeat and shortness of breath occur. 8. Don't become overheated. 9. Don't exercise if your temperature is elevated. 10. Don't exercise lying flat on your back. 11. Wear a support bra. © Your HealthStyle, 2000. |
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Avoid activities where you could fall and hit the ground or water or be bumped in the abdomen with great force. This includes racquet sports.