Pregnancy can be a major shock to a woman’s body. Hormone shifts, body discomfort, and other difficult symptoms can make physical activity seem extremely daunting, and the workouts you once enjoyed may start to feel impossible. Although exercise may be the last thing on your mind during pregnancy, there are incredible benefits to staying active prenatal.
Low-impact exercise can help with back pain and swelling caused by stress and weight gain during pregnancy. Exercises such as squats and stretching can strengthen your lower back, which receives a lot of pressure throughout pregnancy.
According to a recent study, prenatal exercise has also shown to reduce the risk of pregnancy complications such as hypertension and preeclampsia. The study found that when women maintain physical activity throughout pregnancy, it helps keep them at a healthy weight, reduces blood pressure, and overall improves immunity, leading to a smoother pregnancy and a healthy child.
If you loved working out prior to pregnancy, continuing to do safe and non-intensive workouts can be a great way to keep your energy levels up and increase “happy” hormones such as serotonin and dopamine.
Supporting your body with breathing exercises, stretching, and strengthening techniques throughout the significant changes of pregnancy can help you stay connected with your body as well as your baby.
Postnatal is also a significant change to the body after experiencing the whirlwind of pregnancy and labor. The body simply does not “bounce back” immediately after creating new life, and it can take some time before you feel 100% yourself again.
Exercise can be a great way to manage the stress of postpartum and ease back into your normal routines. Women with non-complicated labors have the ability to return to daily physical activities just a few days post-delivery! It is ultimately up to you and listening to your body to decide if you feel ready to begin exercising again.
References:
Moyer C, Reoyo OR, May L. The Influence of Prenatal Exercise on Offspring Health: A Review. Clin Med Insights Womens Health.