Why Exercise During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is one of the most awaited stages in a women's life. It is also one of the most delicate phases in life and that is why it is very important to ensure fitness and wellbeing in this stage. In order to be able to carry out the entire stage of motherhood pleasantly and joyfully, it is very necessary to remain in a happy and comfort zone throughout this period. For ensuring a stress less and healthy gestation phase, it is very important for any pregnant women to carry on with light physical activities in form of daily household works and light exercises.

Maternal exercise can have a significant impact on the labor and delivery process. Exercise during pregnancy appears to benefit both mother and child. The numerous benefits of exercising during pregnancy are:

• Reduce the risk of obesity later: Exercising regularly during pregnancy can help to prevent excess pregnancy weight gain. Putting on excess weight during pregnancy has been associated with a higher risk of maternal weight gain and obesity years after the baby is born. By staying active while you're pregnant, you can avoid excess weight gain during pregnancy and lose the pregnancy weight faster.

• Reduce physical discomfort: When you are pregnant, the discomfort of backache, constipation, fatigue, and swelling may become a nuisance. Being active during your pregnancy can reduce the physical pain you may be experiencing. Exercising improves circulation which then leads to reduced swelling and better nutrient digestion, absorption and utilization. In addition, good circulation will also lessen your risk of developing varicose veins.

• Helps to maintain correct posture: The correct exercises also keep your posture right and keep cutting extra flab getting deposited at all the wrong places. It ensures that your thighs and butts do not accumulate extra fat which may become a hindrance in this as well as post pregnancy stage.

• Reduce the risk of gestational diabetes: Several studies have shown that being physically active during pregnancy can reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. It's important to prevent gestational diabetes since it can increase the risk of delivering a high birth weight baby, making delivery more complicated. Babies born to women with gestational diabetes also have higher rates of developmental problems, blood sugar abnormalities and lung problems.

• Reduces pregnancy related stress: Although pregnancy is an exhilarating time, the changes happening to your body can also bring about a certain degree of stress. Many women have problems sleeping during pregnancy and a daily exercise program can make it easier to get much needed rest during this important time. Exercise causes natural release of endorphins, the "feel good" hormones that give a sense of well being.

• Decrease labor length: While labor length is always variable, research has shown that women who exercise often at moderate intensity have labors that are 1/3 times shorter than many more uncomplicated deliveries of women who don't exercise.

• Ensures healthy sleep: Exercises also ensure a proper and relaxed sleep which is very necessary for you as well as your baby. A regular exercise regime keeps away anxiety and stress ensuring a very sound sleep. A proper sleep also helps you be in a fresh and active mode. Apart from this, it keeps your muscles strong and heart healthy. It also increases your endurance and gives great relief from nausea and breathlessness.

• Increase energy: When you are nauseated and fatigued, it is normal to lack the motivation and drive to exercise. Gradually beginning an exercise program is likely to improve these symptoms. Exercising boosts your energy and improves endurance which may help you manage pain during labor.

The most popular exercises suitable for pregnant women include walking, swimming and yoga. Unless a medical condition prevents it, it is recommended to exercise 3-4 times a week. Exercises which can be strenuous are not recommended. Always consult your doctor/physician before starting an exercise program or the kind of exercises that are advisable for you.

If you exercise during your pregnancy, you'll find it a lot easier to deliver when the time comes. Exercise will help your body strengthen up, which will make it very easy on you when you go into the delivery room. Women who don't exercise find it much harder when the time comes to give birth. Exercising during pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for yourself and for your unborn baby.