Being pregnant doesn't have to mean getting fat and being tired all the time! Engaging in a regular exercise routine can help you look and feel your best during the pregnancy. Even if you have never exercised before, now is a great time to start!
Exercising at least 30 minutes a day has many benefits:
-Helps reduce backaches, constipation, bloating, and swelling
-Helps prevent gestational diabetes
-Reduces constipation
-Gives you more energy
-Improves your mood
-Promotes muscle tone, strength, and endurance which can help
prepare your body for labor
-Helps you sleep better
-Get back to your pre-pregnancy body faster!
Exercises to Try During Pregnancy
Walking is one of the best and safest exercises you can do while you are pregnant. In the summer, be sure to walk in the morning or evening to avoid the heat. When it still way too hot, take a trip to the Jones Center in Springdale where they have a four-lane walking track that can be used for free! Try walking with a loved one to make your exercise something you enjoy!
Swimming is another safe exercise during pregnancy. Swimming allows you to strengthen your muscles while the water supports the weight of your body. It can also decrease swelling in your legs. Swimming is not only a great way to beat the heat in the summer at the Siloam Springs Aquatic Center ($3 or $1.50 after 5:00), but it can be enjoyed year round at the Jones Center in Springdale for $2.
Yoga is a great way to increase your muscle strength, circulation, and increase your balance. In addition, it helps you learn to breathe deeply and relax which can help you prepare for labor. Classes are offered at the Arkansas Yoga Center in Fayetteville on Thursday nights from 7:00-8:00 p.m. If you would rather stay at home, the top rated prenatal yoga videos on Netflix are "Prenatal Yoga", "Crunch: Yoga Mama", and "Yoga Journal: Yoga for Your Pregnancy."
If you don't feel like going out, there are many strength training exercises and stretches you can do at home. You can find pictures and information about them here.
Sticking to an exercise routine can be difficult, but it comes with numerous benefits. In order to stay motivated, try exercising with a friend, joining a class, listening to music, or trying an activity you have never tried before. If you haven't been exercising regularly, pregnancy is a good motivation to begin.
Remember, before beginning an exercise routine it is important to talk to your doctor.
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