Exercises to avoid while pregnant/trying to conceive
WOMEN who are pregnant or trying to conceive are always encouraged to incorporate exercise into their daily routine. Not only does it improve fertility and ovulation, but it strengthens the body and contributes to a normal pregnancy.
But while there are many benefits to be derived, if not done moderately, personal trainer and fitness coach at Express Fitness Liguanea, Gisel Harrow, warns that some exercises can delay pregnancy or even compromise the health of your pregnancy.
“Exercise is a fundamental part of a healthy lifestyle and remains one of the best natural ways to care for oneself – complemented by a balanced diet and hydration. Exercise also helps you with managing your weight, supports hormonal balance, decreases stress and also improves your quality of sleep, which are all beneficial to fertility and conception as well as maintaining optimal health during your pregnancy and for delivery,” Harrow explained.
But Harrow also argues that you must be very careful with the kinds of exercise that you include in your routine.
“There are certain exercises that are not fit for moms-to-be, such as rigorous exercises where you’re lifting heavy weights, boot camp-style training, intense running… such as five or 10Ks, spinning, or any other exercise activity that involves bodily contact or puts a strain on the body,” Harrow advised.
She said that to be certain that your regular exercise will not delay your attempts to conceive or affect your gestation period in any way, you must always speak with your family doctor or obstetrician to make sure that you are in the clear.
“Light cardio such as walking, jogging or cycling, yoga and Pilates are some of the most highly recommended and safer exercises because of their huge benefits with breathing, relaxation and suppleness. Swimming is also a great way to exercise, as it takes the pressure off the joints and helps in strengthening and toning,” Harrow said.
She said that these exercises will help to create a balance between your mental and physical strength.
In general, Harrow said that it is very important for women to start a moderate exercise routine before pregnancy, continue throughout, and remain committed afterwards. She notes that exercise helps to strengthen and provide stamina to the woman in labour, and helps new moms to shed the extra baby weight faster after giving birth.
