Reasons to Exercise While Pregnant

As your baby bump grows, so should your desire to exercise! Not only will you reap the benefits of light cardio, but your baby will also. Want to know why? Here’s a list of reasons to start exercising today:

Less Weight Gain

As your tummy grows, it can be hard to work that off post-pregnancy. Research shows that women who exercise, on average, put on seven pounds less than those who do not work out.

Labor and Delivery May Be Easier

Of course, this is a little trickier to predict, but studies show that a fit cardiovascular system and strong core strength can give you more energy in that dreaded pushing stage. In fact, a recent study found that women who participated in prenatal water aerobics were 58% less likely to request pain medication during labor.

Less Likely to Have That Achy Back

Studies show that about two-thirds of women experience back pain while pregnant. Sign up for a water aerobics class or prenatal yoga, and you can help ease the pain, especially during the second half of pregnancy.

Constipation No More

It sounds silly, but pregnant women are more likely to experience constipation. Intestinal tracts often get backed up because of high progesterone levels and an ever-growing uterus to accommodate the baby’s growth.

Lessen Your Morning Sickness

Although nausea can dampen your workout mood, many future moms affirm that they feel less queasy after a light workout – this can include (but not limited to) yoga, swimming, and light cardio.

Go To Sleep Little Baby (And Momma)

Moms-to-be report that they experience better sleep patterns – including falling asleep faster and more soundly.

Sources: https://www.fitpregnancy.com/exercise/prenatal-workouts/33-reasons-exercise-now

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/03/21/520951610/exercising-while-pregnant-is-almost-always-a-good-idea