Embracing a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy is a wonderful way to care for both you and your developing baby. Taking care of your well-being is especially important during this time when your body is nurturing a new life.
Exercising in pregnancy has numerous benefits.
You tend to gain less weight and are then able to shed the weight faster after you’ve had your baby.
Complaints such as lower back pain and pubic bone pain happen less often.
Your chances of medical complications of pregnancy such as pregnancy-induced diabetes; pregnancy-induced hypertension (high blood pressure); varicose veins and hemorrhoids (piles) are also lowered.
Exercise contributes to better energy levels and mood by releasing endorphins, helping you manage the hormonal changes that come with pregnancy. Evidence suggests that exercising until your due date can positively impact labor. Women who exercise during pregnancy often experience shorter and less complicated labors, leading to a decreased need for surgical intervention. Regular exercise prepares your body for obstetric-related emergencies, promoting a faster recovery after either a vaginal delivery or a caesarean section.
The benefits of exercise during your pregnancy even extend to your baby. Research has shown that babies born to exercising mothers are physiologically tougher and less vulnerable to the usual stresses of late pregnancy and labour.
Babies born to moms who exercise have also been found to be lighter and leaner. They respond readily to things in their environment and can self-quiet easily.
In fact, all aspects of growth and development are equal to or better than those observed in the babies and children of non-exercising mothers, with significantly better performance mentally and physically!
Both South African and international obstetric guidelines recommend incorporating aerobic and strength-conditioning exercises into a healthy pregnancy lifestyle, preferably on most days of the week. However, it’s crucial to consult with your obstetric healthcare provider or a doctor familiar with exercising during pregnancy to ensure there are no medical reasons preventing you from engaging in physical activity. If you already follow a regular exercise routine, you can generally continue with it. Pay attention to your body, prioritize comfort during exercises, and ensure correct technique. It’s encouraged to exercise until your due date.
For those who aren’t regular exercisers, there are still plenty of options. Walking, water aerobics, spinning, weight training, circuits, or yoga—choose what appeals to you. The key is to seek guidance from someone knowledgeable about adapting exercises for pregnancy and addressing related aches or pains, allowing you to continue training safely until your due date.
If you or your trainer have any queries you can contact Wellness Dialogue Group to make contact with Dr Etti Barsky.
