Being pregnant can be a joyous but daunting experience. During pregnancy, it is essential for mothers-to-be to stay active and healthy! Being physically active during pregnancy has many benefits including improving strength, flexibility, and endurance; improving sleep, helping to reduce stress and anxiety; and helping mood regulation. There are many activities that can be safely done by pregnant women, however, it is important for expectant mothers to consult their physician before beginning any kind of physical activity. Here are some tips to help guide expecting mothers through staying fit and safe during their pregnancy: Listen to Your Body – Your body changes throughout your pregnancy, so be sure to listen to it and be mindful of how exercise is affecting you. If you are feeling tired or uncomfortable, take a break and rest and resume the activity when you are ready. Focus on Low Impact Activities – It is always important to focus on low impact activities which will help prevent injury and strain. Low impact activities include: walking, yoga, swimming, Pilates, and light weight training. Stay Hydrated – Staying hydrated is essential during pregnancy as your body needs extra fluids. Make sure to keep yourself hydrated when doing any kind of physical activity. Eat Healthy – Eating right is just as important as staying active when it comes to staying healthy during pregnancy. Eating healthy includes eating a balanced diet and drinking enough water to ensure that you and your baby are getting all the necessary nutrients. Be Prepared – Before engaging in any physical activity, it is important to be prepared. To ensure your safety always wear supportive shoes and comfortable clothes and make sure to warm up and cool down properly before and after any activity. Staying active during pregnancy is beneficial not only for the expecting mother, but also for the unborn child. Following these tips will help ensure that both mother and baby have a healthy pregnancy and can help reduce the risk of complications during delivery.
