 Exercise
during pregnancy
Keeping fit during pregnancy helps your body to
stay toned, increases your stamina during labour and means you're more
likely to keep the pounds off after the birth. Below, we look at
what's safe during pregnancy and what's best for you...
Ever wondered how so many celebrities manage to stay so trim during
their pregnancy and then seem to bounce back to their old shape in just
a few months? Diet has something to do with it, of course, but the other
major factor is exercise. Not only does exercise help to prepare your
body for the marathon that may be your birth, but it also improves your
health in many ways:
- It strengthens our hearts and lungs
- It increases our stamina (very useful during labour!)
- It boosts our immune system (helps our bodies fight illness and infection)
- It reduces unhealthy weight gain (so even if your craving is for
Mars Bars and ice cream, you don't have to pile on the pounds)
- It can relieve many pregnancy-related problems, including varicose veins, piles,
constipation and backache
- It makes us feel happier and more relaxed
All of these benefits are worth having, so if you're either trying
for a baby and want to get fitter, or already pregnant, we've got the
top tips to help you exercise safely during this exciting period.
Reviewed by babyworld
midwife Hannah Hulme Hunter
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