Pregnancy is the most stressful period in a woman’s life involving a variety of physiological, structural and behavioral changes. It is very much important to preserve the body texture during this period so as to be prepared for labor and delivery. The only means of increasing strength, flexibility, endurance and stamina required to maintain pregnancy and during delivery is to make exercise a part of your daily or weekly routine. All the physical exercise programs during pregnancy should be designed in such a way that they provide maximum safety not just to the mother but also to the unborn child.
Some of the benefits of exercising during pregnancy include improved muscle strength, flexibility in muscles and joints, improved blood circulation inside the uterus, better digestion, good sleep, relaxed mind and reduced tension.
Pregnant mothers can do a variety of prenatal exercises that include cycling, swimming, modified aerobics, calisthenics, stretching, walking, moderate intensity of cardiovascular exercises and even prenatal yoga. Any form of exercise can be done depending on the comfort level.
However, a pregnant mother should start any physical fitness program only after having a consultation with a physician. All exercises should be performed under the supervision of a well-trained and certified fitness instructor. One should immediately stop doing any type of exercise upon observation of prenatal danger signs that include pain in the chest, back, pubic and hip region, vaginal bleeding along with leaking of amniotic fluid, dizziness, nausea, fainting, breathlessness, palpitations, tachycardia, vomiting, decreased fetal activity, edema and uterine contraction at 20-minute intervals. It is important to contact the physician immediately when any of these listed symptoms are observed.
