Exercise during pregnancy has a lot of benefits for you and your baby. Having a baby doesn’t mean that you can’t stay active during pregnancy as long as there are no medical complications. What’s important is to choose the right types of activity a snot all exercises are suitable.
Health experts recommend at least 20 to 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most or all days of the week (as long as your doctor hasn’t ruled out exercise or limited your physical activities because of a health condition.
So what are the health benefits?
Improve sleep patterns
As your pregnancy progresses, finding a comfortable sleeping position can be a real challenge. But exercising for 20-30 minutes a day can improve the quality of your sleep and make you feel more rested.
May reduce pregnancy related illnesses
Exercising during pregnancy can lower the risk of developing some pregnancy related complications like Gestational Diabetes and Pre-eclampsia. This is because exercise helps the body become more sensitive to the insulin that the pancreas creates, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.
However, do not engage in any form of physical activity without speaking to your doctor, if you have been diagnosed with preeclampsia or gestational Diabetes already.
Boost your energy
Your energy levels can be low during pregnancy, but regular exercise can help you increase your sense of control and boost your energy level. That’s because exercise strengthens your cardiovascular system, and should boost your energy during stressful times and activities. Exercise has also been found to release endorphins that help improve your mood while diminishing stress and anxiety.
Prepare you for childbirth
The better shape you’re in, the stronger you’ll be when it is time to give birth. Giving birth can be likened to running a race because both require stamina and strength.
Though it hasn’t been well researched, preparing for childbirth with exercise may ease labour and even shorten the time it takes to deliver your baby.
Help get back in shape after giving birth
The more fit and tone you are during pregnancy , the faster you will recover and more fit you will be after delivery. This gives your body a chance to bounce back after you give birth. You’re also less likely to put on excess weight if you exercise during your pregnancy.
Reduce pregnancy discomfort
Regular exercise strengthens your muscles, which helps your body cope better with the aches and pains of pregnancy and strengthen your abdominal muscles
Help relieve constipation
Exercising can encourage your bowels to keep going thereby relieving constipation.
Can be beneficial to babies
Exercise is just as good for your baby as it is for you. It can boost your baby’s brain health, lower the heart rate of your baby and make them less prone to Diabetes and obesity.
Although exercise can never guarantee a risk free pregnancy, it is highly recommended to exercise so you can possibly have the most comfortable pregnancy possible.
