EXERCISE During Antenatal period

Being active and fit during pregnancy helps a woman to cope and adapt with the changes in weight and shape in pregnancy. A properly guided exercise also helps a woman to cope with labour and get back to her shape after child birth.

Exercise is not dangerous to the baby as long as the pregnant woman is comfortable.

Exercise tips for pregnancy:

Do not exhaust yourself

If you were not actively exercising before pregnancy do not suddenly start strenuous exercise

You may need to slow down as the pregnancy advances

If you become breathless when exercising then probably you are exercising strenuously

Start with 15 minutes sessions thrice a week and gradually move over to daily 30minute session

Always warm up before exercise and cool down thereafter

Make sure your trainer knows that you are pregnant

Exercises that have a risk of falling like horse riding, gymnastics, downhill riding are best to be avoided

Take plenty of fluids

EXERCISES FOR A FITTER PREGNANCY

Stomach strengthening exercises

Pelvic tilt exercises

Pelvic floor exercise

These types of exercise will strengthen your muscles to help you carry the extra weight of pregnancy. They'll also make your joints stronger, improve circulation, ease backache, and create a feeling of general well being.