Throughout pregnancy, we have various levels of energy
Some days we’re full of beans and want to dance around, go for a walk, go shopping, do anything we possibly can – we’re wide awake, on the other hand, some days we’re quite happy to manoeuvre from the bed to the sofa and watch TV all day and nap whenever we want to, while our Personal Assistant (other half) waits on us hand and foot
Here are a few exercises that may help you throughout your pregnancy, but remember to always consult your Health Care Professional on anything you are unsure about or that may seem too strenuous.
Swimming
Swimming is a great, relaxing form of exercise when pregnant. It is brilliant for your muscle pain, joint pain and swelling areas. If you don’t usually swim a lot, then it is nice to have a change and take part in a gentle swim, where you feel as light as a feather, no matter how big your bump is! If you’re little sprog is anything like mine was, they will have a whale of a time in there ( no pun intended ;-) )
The first time I went swimming was when I was only about 10 weeks pregnant (not even showing yet) but it was a lovely feeling to know I was beginning this new journey and introducing my baby to the motion of water at such an early stage – obviously I wasn’t swimming hundreds of lengths, just taking it easy!
Any time after this, was either at a spa (which we ALL deserve a visit to) or on holiday in an outdoor pool. This is when baby kicked, punched and swam around with me most, as he got bigger!
Yoga
Yoga is brilliant for easing muscle pain and tension, strengthening core muscles and relaxation. It is also said to prepare you for labour. Check with your local yoga centre if they do prenatal classes that will focus on a more calming, gentle session. Hot yoga isn’t recommended until after first trimester, but always check with health provider before taking part.
Yoga is an exercise I haven’t particularly taken much part in before as I tried it the once and found it quite boring as all I kept doing was thinking about what needs doing – housework, dinner on the evening, my mind just wouldn’t switch off! I would have loved to have done yoga when pregnant, however I always found something more interesting to do! A shame really, maybe next time!
Weight training
No, I am not talking about looking like a pregnant Pop-Eye, just light strength weight training to keep your muscles nice and toned and prepare for labour and post-partum life. If you don’t already have a personal trainer, there are many websites that will provide you with a kind, mild pregnancy workout using objects such as bags of sugar and pieces of fruit etc.
If you are working out at home, make sure you avoid lying flat on your back – always incorporate support wherever necessary.
Walks
Some of us may be walkers already (unlike me, unless it is shopping or getting from the house to the car – yes that’s bad), so taking more regular walks around your neighbourhood when you have a bit of time free and you aren’t feeling too large or tired will help a lot during pregnancy.
Walking can also help ‘lift’ your mood, so if you are feeling a little hormonal, sad or stressed, take a little walk to the park or even the nearest shop. We all know deciding what nursery furniture, pushchair and hospital outfit can be very frustrating at times, so take a breath, put your walking shoes/trainers on and take a stroll – even ask your partner or friend to join you for a little company. Get that weight lifted off your shoulders!
I loved walking when I was pregnant, as I felt I was doing good for my body, it wasn’t too strenuous and it gave me and Leon some time together in the fresh air rather than in front of the TV. However if Leon took it too seriously, I would get stitch and have to take regular breaks – he got impatient haha!
Kegels
Oh we all love a kegel exercise!! We can do this exercise without anyone even knowing and anywhere we like!
During your pregnancy, your pelvic floor muscles that hold the womb, bowels and bladder in their perfect places will loosen and baby will begin to use your bladder as their pillow or punch bag, which may result in leakages when you sneeze, cough or laugh. Kegel exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, to not only prevent such accidents, but also get ready for our baby’s delivery.
Here is a step by step guide to the perfect Kegel exercise
Sex/Sexercise
The whole reason our little sproglets got there in the first place!
Some women absolutely hate the thought of having sex during pregnancy, however there are many benefits to such exercise during pregnancy:
• It strengthens the pelvic floor muscles, so you could give your kegel exercise a miss that day ;-)
• It can prevent pre-eclampsia, as the man’s sperm has a protein called HLA-G. This regulates the immune system and lowers a woman’s blood pressure during pregnancy
• Improves a woman’s circulation. When pregnant, a woman’s blood supply requirement almost doubles in order to maintain a healthy and happy baby. With a boosted circulation, the baby will receive a perfect supply of nutrients, oxygen and happy thoughts when growing in the womb
• Better orgasms. Obviously, you’ve got to be in it for the rewards too! With increased estrogen, a woman is more aroused in the pelvic area and has larger nipples, with more sensitivity due to a higher blood flow. This is said to achieve a more intense orgasm than usual.
• Helps you sleep. We all know that sex can make us tired, however when pregnant, the flow of endorphins helps to avoid fatigue and tiring symptoms, so go ahead and sleep all those niggly issues away!
Important!!
When exercising (and throughout your pregnancy) make sure you always keep yourself hydrated with plenty of fluids (especially water)
Useful links:
Emma’s Diary - Drinking Water While Pregnant
You have just read Part 7 of my First Series - TEN PROBLEMS IN PREGNANCY!
Enjoying my series so far?
Take a look at Previous Posts …
1. Problems in Pregnancy: Sickness
2. Problems in Pregnancy: Heartburn
3. Problems in Pregnancy: Tiredness & Fatigue
4. Problems in Pregnancy: Foods to avoid
5. Problems in Pregnancy: Feel Good Within Yourself
6. Problems in Pregnancy: Bleeding
Upvote and follow for Part 8 COMING SOON!
Thank you :)
