Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?
Actually, I will clarify that I know that exercising during pregnancy is safe and most doctors will normally advice some exercise. My question is more, as a person who does not normally exercise at all, would it be safe for me to start walking more and maybe doing light weights for my arms while I’m pregnant (I am not yet)?
The reason why I think this may be a good thing is that I want to cut down the chances of developing gestational diabetes or pregnancy-related hypertension. I also may get me into better shape so that I can lose post-pregnancy weight faster.
I know you are not doctors but maybe someone here has previously questioned your doctor on this.
Thanks!
Tara
If you start before you become pregnant, it’s better. But yeah, light, low-stress exercise is very much recommended. It helps with your own health, and (big bonus) helps make the actual labor easier.
You just sometimes have to take it down a bit. For example I’ve been doing physical therapy for my back, and my physical therapist just gave me a gentler, easier, set of exercises for while I’m pregnant. If you’re wondering about any specific exercise, just be sure to talk to your doctor.
November 5th, 2008 17:18
Yes it is okay to increase your activity but do not over do it… remember to try and stick to low impact things like walking. if you have any questions though you should always ask your doctor
good luck!
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November 5th, 2008 17:30
If you start before you become pregnant, it's better. But yeah, light, low-stress exercise is very much recommended. It helps with your own health, and (big bonus) helps make the actual labor easier.
You just sometimes have to take it down a bit. For example I've been doing physical therapy for my back, and my physical therapist just gave me a gentler, easier, set of exercises for while I'm pregnant. If you're wondering about any specific exercise, just be sure to talk to your doctor.
References :
November 5th, 2008 17:53
From what I have read, walking during pregnancy is the best form of exercise. I'd be careful with the weights, keeping the weights light as you said (3-5 lbs).
The diabetes question is more serious. Depending on your age and diet, the best way to stave off pregnancy-induced diabetes is to be very careful with your diet, keeping the candy and simple sugars in the cupboard for now. If you get your walking in, and keep your diet moderated, you should be able to avoid some of these problems.
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November 5th, 2008 18:43
Yes– walking and light weights definately won't do any harm. Just don't do anything really strenuous that you aren't used to. The general rule is to not start something up during pregnancy that you didn't do pre-pregnancy (A good example would be someone who started playing tennis during pregnancy who didn't do it pre-pregnancy), but since walking is gentle on your body and not strenuous but still good for you, I'd say that is your best bet! Good luck!
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November 5th, 2008 18:59
i thought it was nescesary just different kind of exercise than for body building
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November 5th, 2008 19:23
Everything in a timing. Don't rush working out thinking you have to start strong and then you find yourself exhausted quickly. Start slow is the way to go really.
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November 5th, 2008 19:36
The exercise you are suggesting is very low impact and low risk, little worries. As with everything in pregnancy from sneezing to traveling you should ask your doctor first.
So long as its not intense it is generally not dangerous to start during pregnancy, unless you have an incomplete cervix or something. Kegel exercises are REALLY good to get started on.
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