Exercise is important for many reasons; it has several health benefits. Many mothers are under the impression that exercise is a dangerous activity, and it is something they should avoid throughout their pregnancy. This could not be further from the truth as there are many good reasons to exercise when you are pregnant. Although there are some things you should avoid, most exercises are safe and beneficial.
Exercise Clothing
You need to be comfortable during exercise and that is why many people invest in Australian maternity sports leggings. You do not want to compromise on functionality for something that just fits. You need clothing that looks good and is practical for each exercise session. The good news is that there are plenty of options for maternity activewear. Once you find the right type of clothing, you can feel your best at every stage of your pregnancy.
When choosing maternity clothes for exercise, think about the following:
- Breathability
- Comfort
- Clothing accessories
It is best to go for something simple and stylish. Look for supportive clothing that works at every stage of your pregnancy.
Physical Activity During Pregnancy
Many women believe that exercise is dangerous during pregnancy, and this is a common misconception that needs to be debunked. Exercise is beneficial for your mental wellbeing and physical health.
Exercising throughout your pregnancy helps to keep your mind and body healthy. It reduces tension and stress, releasing feel-good hormones that boost your mental state. It also makes your lungs, heart, and blood vessels stronger. When you make strength training part of your workout, your body is better equipped to deal with the extra weight. You can strengthen core muscles and take a lot of strain off your lower back.
Here are a few more good reasons to exercise during your pregnancy.
- It helps to control your body weight, ensuring you gain the right amount through each stage of the pregnancy.
- It can ease some common discomforts associated with pregnancy – swollen ankles, sore back, constipation, etc.
- It helps you to sleep better and it boosts your mood.
- Stronger abdominal muscles make it easier to have the baby.
Safe Activities
There are many great resources online that highlight the importance of exercise during pregnancy. If you are healthy and have exercised before you were pregnant, it is usually safe to continue with the same activities.
If you are used to doing intense exercises such as tennis or running, you may have to change the activity as your belly gets bigger. Most people focus on low-impact exercises during their pregnancy to take some stress off their joints and muscles.
Before starting any new activity, talk to your doctor. Here are some popular pregnancy activities:
- Yoga
- Swimming & water workouts
- Low-impact aerobics
You do not need to join any gym or club to stay active. It is recommended that you exercise at least 30 minutes a day. As you get bigger, you may need to adjust activities or try something easier. The important thing to remember is that exercise is important during pregnancy and once done correctly, it will not harm your baby.
