Keeping Up Your Fitness Program Using Prenatal Exercise
Becoming pregnant is not an automatic reason to abandon your exercise routine that you have worked so hard to achieve. You may have to reorganize a few of the steps that you take in prenatal exercise but keeping well and fit is just what baby needs.
DO and DON'T Rules of Prenatal Exercise
Keeping your upper torso toned and fit is an area that does not have to be compromised. Keeping your arms, neck and lungs in good working order will only benefit yourself and baby. Prenatal exercise should not involve any type of agenda that involves lying on your back after you have reached your fifth month. Leg raises or sit-ups can lead to diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation) or decreased blood flow to the womb.
Listen to your Body
The human body has a unique way of warning us when have done too much. This is no different in prenatal exercise as you advance into your pregnancy. You may find that your regular level of exercise is becoming exhausting faster and this is okay.
Back off of the number of sets that you are accustomed to and listen to your body. Hard breathing and heavy sweating are signs that you are over-extending yourself and can also make baby have to breathe harder.
Machines that are a No-no
Stair climbers are great for those abs and thighs but not during prenatal exercise. The ligaments that surround the uterus are already being stretched naturally and this will just be exacerbated through added exercise. Any machines that focus on the strengthening of abs, hips or thighs need to be avoided during prenatal exercise.
Heat and Water
Prenatal exercise may find your thirst more robust than normal. Don't ignore the need for extra water as you work out. No one has ever suffered from too much water but becoming dehydrated during prenatal exercise is dangerous.
Avoid extreme heat during the summer months. Remember that any time you are uncomfortable, so is baby. The right amount of oxygen supply to the womb comes from your body and must be monitored.
Misnomers
The old wives tale that exercise is damaging to your baby and could result in miscarriage is just that, an old wives tale. Prenatal exercise is an excellent way to keep your body fit and toned if you listen to your body and avoid the obvious damaging exercises surrounding the womb.
Light jogging, walking and eating lots of fruits and vegetables are other ways to create the perfect prenatal exercise program while staying fit at the same time. Work to feel your best during this special time and to pick up where you left off with your regular exercise program once baby is born.
