Exercises for pregnant women

If you have a medical problem, such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes, exercise may not be advisable. Exercise may also be harmful if you have an obstetric condition such as:

• Bleeding or spotting
• Low placenta
• Threatened or recurrent miscarriage
• A history of early labour
• Previous premature births
• Weak cervix

 According to medical practitioners most exercises are safe to perform during pregnancy, as long as one exercise with caution and do not overdo it.

The safest and most productive activities are swimming, brisk walking, indoor stationary bicycling and low-impact aerobics. These activities carry little risk of injury, benefit one’s entire body, and can be continued until birth.

Tennis and racquetball are generally safe activities, but the change in balance during pregnancy may affect rapid movements. Other activities such as jogging can be done in moderation. A pregnant woman may want to choose exercises or activities that do not require great balance or coordination, especially later in pregnancy.

Some pregnant women said that it is healthy to walk as part of one’s exercises. They went on to say that stretching hands and legs also help to reduce back and legs pain.

To learn strength and toning exercises that are safe to do during pregnancy need to discuss your exercise plans with your doctor or other health care provider early on and make a few adjustments to your normal exercise routine. The level of exercise recommended will depend with one's level of pre-pregnancy fitness. Exercise is a big plus for both the mother and baby thus if complications don't limit your ability to exercise throughout your pregnancy.