Exercise During Pregnancy

If you’ve never exercised, pregnancy is a great time to start. Discuss your plan to start exercising with your health care provider. Also, remember to start slowly. Begin with as little as 5 minutes of exercise a day and add 5 minutes each week until you can stay active for 30 minutes per day.

 Many sports are safe during pregnancy, even for beginners: 

• Walking is a good exercise for anyone. Brisk walking gives a total body workout and is easy on the joints and muscles. If you were not active before getting pregnant, walking is a great way to start an exercise program. 

• Swimming is great for your body because it works so many muscles. The water supports your weight so you avoid injury and muscle strain. It also helps you stay cool and may prevent your legs from swelling. 

• Cycling provides a good aerobic workout. However, your growing belly can affect your balance and make you more prone to falls. You may want to stick with stationary or recumbent biking later in pregnancy.

• Yoga can be very beneficial during pregnancy. It calms both mind and body, providing the physical and emotional stress relief your body needs throughout pregnancy. Be sure to take certain precautions and let your instructor know that you are expecting.