For the superstitious, pregnancy entails a seemingly endless of do’s and don’ts, many of which are even unfounded.  There are beliefs that a pregnant woman should not be allowed to work, lift anything, or walk around much, let alone doing exercise or pregnancy workout, because she might have miscarriage.

Strenuous activities may affect pregnancy, but then, working out during a pregnancy term does not necessarily have to be laborious.  There are varied forms and levels of exercises designed especially for the expectant one. All she needs to do prior to planning a regimen is to consult with her doctor on which one(s) fit her.  Unless it is hampered by complications or ailment, exercise or pregnancy workout should be a healthy activity, for both mother and fetus, providing all the benefits of a regular regimen and some more, such as:

Benefits of Pregnancy Workout:

Improved mood and reduced fatigue. Expectant women usually experience low-level tiredness during their first trimester, but a little push of simple routine can help a lot in overcoming fatigue and fighting nausea, stiff muscles, stress, and weight gain. A good workout can also reduce mood swings, prevent depression, enhance self-image, and provide a sense of control.

Improved sleep. One of the most common complaints of pregnant women is that they have difficulty sleeping through the night. But studies and other mothers who worked out on a regular basis during their pregnancy said that exercise allowed them to get rid of excess energy that consequently made them so tired and induced them to sleep and make them rest well.  However, exercise should be done at least three hours before going to bed; otherwise, it could be too energizing.

Manage pregnancy constipation and hemorrhoids. Some pregnant women also complain about having constipation and hemorrhoids.  This is because their bodies as well as their eating habits undergo many changes.  But then again, this problem can be remedied by doing some exercises. Women who have tried it affirm that even a 30-minute brisk walk or a 10-minute stroll considerably improved their bowel movement.

Increased energy level. Appropriate exercise makes the joints strong, relieves backaches by strengthening the muscles, improves posture, and boosts the cardiovascular system. Besides, it enhances the brain to release endorphins, those hormone-like substances that are responsible in producing a natural feeling of elation and well being.  An improved circulation considerably alleviates certain conditions like constipation, hemorrhoids, leg cramps, varicose veins, and swelling of the ankles.

Prevent gestational diabetes. Proper pregnancy workout is a helpful therapy for those who are prone to develop gestational diabetes, a condition that appears only during pregnancy and which usually starts between the twenty-fourth and twenty-eighth weeks of pregnancy.

Facilitate childbirth and healthy baby. Studies have shown that mothers who did regular workouts are more likely to have shorter and less exhaustive labor and delivery, and require lesser medical interventions during labor. They also tend to recover from the strains of childbirth quickly. Likewise, their babies have healthier weights at birth.

Quick post-partum recovery.  Exercise promotes faster physical recovery after childbirth and helps them get back into shape quick.

It should be noted, however, that not all pregnant women are naturally fit to do workouts. There are women who have high-risk pregnancy, or are prone to pre-term labor.  Therefore, their regimen should be closely monitored by their respective physicians or health care provider.

So now you know that there’s tons of benefits from pregnancy workout, I believe every pregnant woman should pick up a simple pregnancy workout and start doing it gently one at a time.

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