As if keeping your body in tip-top shape wasn’t already challenging enough, staying fit and active can seem rather impossible when your body is subject to strange cravings, mood swings and maternity loungewear specifically designed to maximize your time spent lounging. But staying as fit and active as possible during pregnancy is important to keep mommy and baby healthy during these nine months. Not to mention, a healthy body recovers much easier after childbirth. In fact, the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) finds that women who engage in physical activity during pregnancy experience more health benefits for their body and their baby than women who don’t. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help you maintain a healthy and fit body during these nine months.
Aim for 30 minutes of activity each day
Fitness is the name of the game when it comes to staying in shape and keeping your baby healthy during pregnancy, but it’s important not to overdo it. The British Journal of Sports Medicine confirms that 30 minutes of activity each day is suggested to keep mommy and baby strong and healthy throughout pregnancy. Consider daily walks or 30 minute swims each morning to get your heart rate up and improve the baby’s cardiovascular development. Plus, exercising in 30-minute increments seems a lot more doable than participating in long, high-intensity workout classes.
Try a variety of exercises
Fitness looks different for everyone––especially when pregnant. There are so many different ways to stay healthy and active, so make sure you try a variety of exercises and continue with the ones that make your body feel its best. Go for a brisk walk, sign up for a prenatal yoga class or try a low impact aerobics session. When it comes to exercise during pregnancy, trying a variety of activities maximizes the benefits for your body and your baby’s development.
Listen to your body
Moderation is the key to fitness during pregnancy. It’s important not to overindulge in activity while pregnant to keep you and your baby safe. The Physician and Sportsmedicine Academic Journal finds that because of the intense physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, a woman may not respond to exercise the way she does when she’s not pregnant. Some women may feel too tired or nauseated to exercise, particularly during the first trimester. So listen to what your body is telling you. If you tried out an aerobics class yesterday and your body is still feeling the effects of a good workout, take the day off from exercising and give your body the rest it needs. Stay hydrated, eat well and drink plenty of water to avoid dizziness and excessive fatigue during workouts.
Staying fit during pregnancy is easier said than done, but nonetheless important. Being active and healthy can improve everything from better weight gain control to less intense back pains to increased energy and better moods over these nine months and once you become a mom. Keep these three tips in mind during your pregnancy journey to stay in shape and fit for two.
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