Top Exercising Tips to Follow During Pregnancy
Posted 19 April 2022
Pregnancy is an amazing time for a woman’s body to grow and develop a new life. While your body is going through all of these changes, it is important to keep up with an active lifestyle by exercising.
Exercising during pregnancy has many benefits for both the mother and the baby. It can help improve your mood, energy levels, and sleep quality. It can also help prevent or manage gestational diabetes, reduce back pain, and improve your labour experience.
Here are some important things to keep in mind when exercising while pregnant, and a few good reasons why Pilates should be on top of your list of exercises to try!
Yes, you can and should exercise while pregnant! The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that all healthy pregnant women get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Aerobic activities are activities that make your heart and lungs work harder, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or biking. Moderate intensity means you’re working hard enough to raise your heart rate and break a sweat, but you can still carry on a conversation.
Pilates is both aerobic and anaerobic, depending on what your goals are – making it an adaptable exercise for pregnant women. Intense but low-impact, it is perfect for pregnancy because it works out all of the important muscle groups in your body, including and most importantly your core, which can not only aid during the pregnancy but while in labour, too.
Types of Exercises to Do While Pregnant
There are a variety of different exercises that are safe and beneficial to do while pregnant. Some good examples include walking, swimming, stationary biking, and of course, Pilates.
It is important to avoid any high-impact activities that could jar or jolt your body, as well as any activities that require you to lay flat on your back after the first trimester. These types of activities can put too much pressure on your growing uterus and restrict blood flow to both you and your baby.
Pilates is a great way to stay active during pregnancy because it is a low-impact form of exercise that strengthens your core muscles without putting undue stress on your body. If you are looking for a supportive and helpful community during your pregnancy journey, look no further than Club Pilates! Our trained instructors will guide you through safe and effective exercises that will benefit both you and your baby.
Precautions to Take When Pregnant and Exercising
Before starting any new exercise routine, it is always important to check with your doctor first, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns. In general, there are a few things to keep in mind when exercising while pregnant:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Wear comfortable, supportive clothing.
- Avoid overheating by exercising in a cool or temperate environment.
- Listen to your body and stop if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or short of breath.
Benefits of Exercising During Pregnancy
There are many benefits of exercising during pregnancy, both for the mother and the baby. Some benefits for the mother include:
- Improved mood
- Increased energy levels
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Reduced back pain
- Prevention or management of gestational diabetes
- Improved labour experience
And some benefits for the baby include:
- A healthy birth weight
- Stronger bones and muscles
- A higher IQ
- A reduced risk of obesity later in life
Is Pilates a Good Exercise Method for Pregnant Women?
Yes, Pilates is an excellent form of exercise for pregnant women! As we mentioned before, it is a low-impact form of exercise that strengthens your core muscles without putting undue stress on your body.
Pilates is also a great way to stay connected with your baby during pregnancy. Because you are focused on your breath and movement, it can help you feel more in tune with your body and your baby.
Pilates is a great way to stay active during pregnancy because it is a low-impact form of exercise that strengthens your core muscles without putting undue stress on your body. Club Pilates offers supportive prenatal Pilates classes at studios across the nation, with existing studios in Noosa, North Lakes, Sippy Downs, and Innaloo.
Visit your local Club Pilates today to learn more!
