The good news is that you should be able to continue exercising during your pregnancy. For those that are already involved with an exercise program, you should be able to maintain that program – at least to some degree. If you were not exercising prior to pregnancy it is usually recommended that you begin some type of exercise program; however it is important to check with your doctor to confirm which exercises are best for you.

Some Helpful Guidelines for Exercising During Pregnancy:

• Start slowly and be careful not to over exert yourself if you are starting a program during pregnancy.
• Stretch before and after your exercise program.
• Your body will give you signs that it is time to reduce your level of exercise
• Avoid exercising to the point of exhaustion or breathlessness.
• Wear comfortable exercise footwear that gives strong ankle and arch support.
• Drink plenty of fluids and seek to take frequent breaks.
• Avoid exercise in extremely hot weather.
• Avoid exercises or rocky and unstable terrain which increases your chance of falling.
• Avoid lifting weights above your head and using weights that strain the lower back muscles.
• During the second and third trimesters, avoid exercise that involves laying flat on your back as this decreases blood flow to your womb.

Recommended Exercises During Pregnancy:

• Kegel Exercises
• Swimming
• Walking
• Running & Jogging
• Bicycling
• Yoga
• Aerobics

Exercises to Avoid During Pregnancy:

• Snow Skiing
• Water Skiing
• Horseback Riding
• Contact Sports

Special Thoughts for Exercising During Pregnancy:

It is important to make sure that you are drinking lots of fluids and that you have plenty of support including the clothes and shoes that you wear. Make sure that you are getting plenty of oxygen without breathing too heavily and keep your heart rate below 140.

If you experience any vaginal bleeding, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, or sense that you might faint, stop exercising immediately.

For more information on Exercise During Pregnancy or pregnancy, visit the American Pregnancy Association.