Should I Exercise While I'm Pregnant? YES

Benefits of Exercise in the Childbearing Year

More and more women are striving to stay active during pregnancy. Being physical active can keep both mother and baby healthier during the childbearing year. Research has shown that not only is exercise safe for pregnant for women but has tremendous benefits.

Exercise during pregnancy can help relieve symptoms of morning sickness, help circulation, reduce water retention, leg cramps, improve your sleep and help you stay strong and energetic.

Other benefits of exercise during pregnancy are an improved self image, gives you the ability to adjust to your changing shape and helps you return to your pre-pregnancy shape after you deliver. But it is key that you receive correct exercise prescription and instruction during this important time. Even if you have been active in the past special considerations are vital during this important time.

That's where the personal trainers at Just Ladies Fitness can help. We will take you through each step, educating and coaching as to the safe and effective ways to exercise while pregnant and after.

Your personal trainer will review with you the benefits of exercise, give you recommendations for safe exercises, diet considerations and instruct you on how to safely monitor intensity and progress at a safe pace.

Pregnancy is not the time to try to become an elite athlete, but you can maintain or improve slightly on your pre-pregnancy fitness level.

Remember to:

• Always stay well hydrated before and after exercise
• Eat a light snack prior to exercising
• Always monitor you heart rate and intensity during exercise based on the guidelines set out by your trainer
• Avoid exercising in a hot, humid or poorly ventilated environment
• Stop exercising if you feel overly fatigued or exhausted.

After the first trimester avoid exercise in the supine, (laying flat on you back) position and in your last (third) trimester avoid exercises that may compromise balance.

Always discuss with physician before undertaking a exercise program. Remember if you were physically active prior to pregnancy you may continue to do so with some modifications. Women who have been sedentary prior to pregnancy must start slowly.

Take the opportunity to be healthy and active during you pregnancy to keep yourself and baby on the path to a well balanced lifestyle. Just ladies Fitness can help you before, during and after pregnancy to achieve you health and fitness goals.

Click here for more information on KEY Pregnancy Nutrients in our Members Services Section.

Please Note: Please do not hesitate to call or visit us with any concerns you may have before beginning a new exercise program especially if you are pregnant. And always consult your physician first before you begin.