Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?

Question

Actually, I will clarify that I know that exercising during pregnancy is safe and most doctors will normally advice some exercise. My question is more, as a person who does not normally exercise at all, would it be safe for me to start walking more and maybe doing light weights for my arms while I'm pregnant (I am not yet)?

The reason why I think this may be a good thing is that I want to cut down the chances of developing gestational diabetes or pregnancy-related hypertension. I also may get me into better shape so that I can lose post-pregnancy weight faster.

I know you are not doctors but maybe someone here has previously questioned your doctor on this.

Thanks!
Tara

Answer 1

If you start before you become pregnant, it's better. But yeah, light, low-stress exercise is very much recommended. It helps with your own health, and (big bonus) helps make the actual labor easier.

You just sometimes have to take it down a bit. For example I've been doing physical therapy for my back, and my physical therapist just gave me a gentler, easier, set of exercises for while I'm pregnant. If you're wondering about any specific exercise, just be sure to talk to your doctor.

Answer 2

Not only is exercise safe during pregnancy, it is also beneficial. During pregnancy is probably not the best time to start a rigorous exercise program if you are not already used to it, but if you were going out on frequent runs prior to becoming pregnant and your body is used to it then there's no reason to stop running until it becomes uncomfortable or your doctor tells you that it is unsafe. Walking and swimming are also great ways to get your exercise. Water exercise is particularly beneficial as the baby gets bigger because the water helps to take some of the weight off your joints as you exercise. The water pressure can also help reduce swelling in the lower extremities during exercise.

Answer 3

From what I have read, walking during pregnancy is the best form of exercise. I'd be careful with the weights, keeping the weights light as you said (3-5 lbs).

The diabetes question is more serious. Depending on your age and diet, the best way to stave off pregnancy-induced diabetes is to be very careful with your diet, keeping the candy and simple sugars in the cupboard for now. If you get your walking in, and keep your diet moderated, you should be able to avoid some of these problems.

Answer 4

The exercise you are suggesting is very low impact and low risk, little worries. As with everything in pregnancy from sneezing to traveling you should ask your doctor first.

So long as its not intense it is generally not dangerous to start during pregnancy, unless you have an incomplete cervix or something. Kegel exercises are REALLY good to get started on.

Answer 5

Yes-- walking and light weights definately won't do any harm. Just don't do anything really strenuous that you aren't used to. The general rule is to not start something up during pregnancy that you didn't do pre-pregnancy (A good example would be someone who started playing tennis during pregnancy who didn't do it pre-pregnancy), but since walking is gentle on your body and not strenuous but still good for you, I'd say that is your best bet! Good luck!

Answer 6

Everything in a timing. Don't rush working out thinking you have to start strong and then you find yourself exhausted quickly. Start slow is the way to go really.

Answer 7

Yes it is okay to increase your activity but do not over do it... remember to try and stick to low impact things like walking. if you have any questions though you should always ask your doctor :) good luck!

Answer 8

i thought it was nescesary just different kind of exercise than for body building