Being physically fit is an important part of being a healthy, well-rounded individual. These days, pregnancy and postpartum are the times when more and more families are introduced to regular exercise. It is a time to look out not only for yourself, but for your unborn baby as well.
As science decides that physical fitness and exertion are not. only acceptable but also essential parts of a healthy pregnancy, more women are taking part in the physical fitness movement during pregnancy. The result is not only healthier, but also happier moms and babies.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) highly encourages that women with low-risk pregnancies work out at least three times a week, if not more. Women who are in a high-risk pregnancy or questionable situation can often find a suitable form of exercise with the help of their practitioners.
Exercise has been shown in scientific studies to reduce the amount of weight gained in pregnancy. Furthermore, pregnant women who regularly exercise also report fewer pregnancy-related complaints, such as backaches, sciatica, or muscular cramps. The movements of exercise also help with other pregnancy-induced complications, such as fatigue, a major source of frustration by pregnant women and their families.
Moms who work out also tend to have shorter, easier labors than their counterparts who don't exercise. These labors are also less likely to be plagued by complications or interventions like episiotomies, which are generally done for a couple of reasons. One reason might be if the tissues look likely to tear (as opposed to a practitioner who always cuts one). Tearing is much more common in women who do not have good muscle tone in that area, or good control of those muscles.
Physical exercise in pregnancy has also shown that these exercising moms tend to recover faster from whatever labor brings them — even if it's a cesarean section or an episiotomy.
During the early postpartum period, mothers who worked out during pregnancy are more likely to resume exercise. This means that they also lose their pregnancy weight more easily and at a faster pace. Add breastfeeding, which burns off excess calories and fat deposits, to the exercising, and the weight and fat deposits seem to melt away! Overall, the healthier lifestyle is of benefit to the new family.
Learning to exercise in a safe and effective manner is a key element in any plan. This means that you will need to closely examine your previous exercise and fitness history. By taking this information and discussing your plans and pregnancy with your current doctor or midwife, you can find an appropriate workout plan.
Basically, physical fitness in pregnancy is for everyone, with the proper supervision.
Whether you do aerobics, swim, or walk the dog, exercise is a key element in any healthy pregnancy. Remember to always check with your practitioner before making drastic changes in your workout regimen. Mostly, remember to have fun and find an exercise that keeps you enthused enough to make it a lifelong habit.