Exercise
Many women enjoy exercise throughout pregnancy. Typically, the rule of
thumb is to avoid beginning a new exercise routine during this time. Consult
your physician for specific recommendations.
- Get fit before you get pregnant - Getting enough exercise is important
for your stamina and overall health. Being either overweight or underweight
can cause problems in pregnancy.
- Is exercise safe during pregnancy? - Perhaps the question should be, is
it safe to not exercise? The benefits of staying fit at this time in your
life are many.
- Planning your exercise routine: What's different about pregnancy? - With
pregnancy comes changes in your exercise routine.
- Aerobics, cycling, and swimming: Oh, my! Exercise options in pregnancy
- What is the best form of exercise for a pregnant woman? Most will agree
that a program of cardiovascular exercise is the first priority.
- Bodybuilding during pregnancy? It can be done - Well, strength training
is what we're really talking about.
- Exercise? But I haven't a thing to wear! - It can be hard enough to motivate
yourself to exercise during pregnancy, especially when your favorite workout
gear starts getting tighter and tighter.
- Kegels are key to bladder control - Doing Kegel exercises for five minutes
a day can prevent urine leaks and keep your perineum in better shape before
and after childbirth. These exercises, which are easy to do and can be
done anywhere, can even enhance your sex life.
- Toning where you need it most: Back, abs and pelvic floor - Work out the
muscles you'll be depending upon to get through the pregnancy, birth,
and early parenthood feeling your best.
- Walking: An ideal exercise for many expectant moms - Doctors can't say
enough good things about walking, and that's especially true during pregnancy.
- Staying active in the home stretch - Exercise continues to benefit mother
and baby right up until birth, and there's no need to drop your workout now.
- Your body will recover: Here's how - Bleeding, hair loss, mood swings and
fatigue are normal after pregnancy, but they eventually subside.
- Getting back in shape: How-to's for new moms - Ready to shape back up?
Remember to take it slowly, starting with easier exercises and working
up as your stamina and strength grow.
- Baby: Your new exercise partner - If you haven't already figured it out,
life is easier with a newborn when you learn, within reason, to continue
with life as usual and simply bring baby along.