As a mom-to-be, you are probably well aware of how to treat your body during pregnancy. When you are at your prenatal health visits, your doctor has probably told you to develop healthy eating habits and steer clear of certain activities like smoking.
However, it's also equally important to make sure that your changing body gets exercise. Keep in mind that this doesn't mean running a marathon or anything like that. But, getting a gentle workout in can help reduce some discomforts like an aching back and can actually make the labor process easier.
Here are some tips you may want to consider when it comes to exercising during the nine months before giving birth:
1) Stick to low impact activities
Exercises that involve running are a big no-no. You want to stick with options that aren't going to have you bouncing up and down. Swimming, brisk walking and indoor cycling are all perfectly acceptable. You should be able to have a conversation with someone while working out.
2) Don't overstretch
Few people would argue with the statement that stretching either before or after exercising is good for you. However, you don't want to do too much while preggers. The pregnancy hormone known as relaxin makes your body more susceptible to tears.
3) Remember not to lie on your back
After your first semester, medical professionals say that any activities that have you belly-up aren't that safe. This is because, when you are on your back, there is pressure put on the large vein called the vena cava, which is responsible for sending blood from your lower limbs to your heart.