Can you exercise during Pregnancy?

Can you exercise during your Pregnancy?  

In short, yes, however, it is always recommended to speak with your doctor or obstetrician before commencing a new exercise routine or continuing with exercise throughout your pregnancy. Once you have been given clearance, working with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist would be a great way to ensure that you are provided with a suitable exercise load throughout your entire pregnancy.  

Why should you exercise during pregnancy?
Exercise is one of the best things you can do both the health of you and your baby – it can help prevent gestational diabetes and hypertension, improve general energy levels, keep the body strong – especially to prepare you for carrying around your little one! improve sleep and help you prepare for labour.  

What sort of exercise should you be doing?
Prenatal Pilates, light – moderate aerobic exercise (e.g. going for a walk or stationary cycling) or resistance-based exercise are all great types of exercises that you could include in your routine. However, there are some exercises that are deemed unsafe during pregnancy, so it is recommended to seek the advice of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist for more information. A couple of examples include; core exercises (such as sit ups and crunches), contact sports, high impact exercises and exercises lying on your back.  

How much activity should you be doing?
The Australian Physical activity guidelines recommend participating in 150 minutes of moderate intensity per week. However, it is also very important to listen to your body and progress your exercise slowly under the guidance of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist.  

An exercise physiologist trained in Women’s Health can help you out with your exercise routine during pregnancy. Please give the clinic a call to start your exercise journey!