Safe exercises while you're pregnant?

Question

I keep reading that continuing exercise is important while you're pregnant, and I intend to do just that. I figure I shouldn't run as hard as I normally do, but I've read that semi strenuous walking and stationary bicycles are good options. However, I am curious about ab exercises. I read that its important to do ab exercises as it helps in labor, but I also read that situps are bad. What are some good ab exercises I can do?

I plan on walking and no longer running, but I'm wondering what sort of ab exercises I should do? What to Expect When You're Expecting said I should do some, but not sit ups. What should I do then?

I will not do sit ups. I never said I would do sit ups. I don't want to do sit ups. I know sit ups are bad. No sit ups, I promise.
Now that I've hopefully gotten that across. What else, BESIDES SITUPS, can I do for my ABS?

Answer 1

Kegel Exercises...You'll appreciate it after you delivery and you're not wetting your pants everytime you cough or sneeze!!!

Answer 2

It's kind of a mixed message, don't you think?? Don't do certain ab exercises, but at the same time you want your stomach muscles to be in shape for labor! I found that throughout my pregnancy if I did a few hours of manual labor that really helped and felt really good. For example, I built several garden boxes with HEAVY wood, shoveled a lot of compost, and wheelbarrowed things around the yard starting my first garden. As you get farther along your belly will feel really tight, and the baby will respond to the activity but nothing should feel like it's bringing on labor. That's how I know when to stop - they say if the tightening starts getting consistant and doesn't stop when you stop working out - then that's too much and could be preterm labor. Anyway - good luck with your routine, whatever you choose. I cant see how situps will work once you get to be basketball sized, but don't be discouraged by the "don't's" - you will know what's right for you.

Answer 3

I wouldn't do sit ups unless your doctor tells you it's safe. Walking is probably the best all around - running can be too jarring, especially when you get bigger. I heard that Kegel exercises are the best thing (other than walking) to help with delivery and labor.

Answer 4

Brisk walking is better. Jogging can be too harsh. Any AB exercises should be stopped. Swimming is one of the best options also, if you have a pool available in your area.

Answer 5

I am 14 weeks pregnant and my dr. said set ups are not a good exercises while pregnant, i wouldn't suggest it, maybe walking or some bicycling, i wouldn't run though. you should talk it over with your doc.

Answer 6

IF I WERE YOU, I'D STICK TO WALKING ALOT AND YOGA.
NEITHER ONE OF THOSE IS STRENUOUS OR CAN HARM YOU OR YOUR UNBORN CHILD.

YOGA IS VERY RELAXING TO THE MIND AND BODY, YET IT HELPS TO TONE AND TIGHTEN YOUR MUSCLES.