Bun in the Oven?

Here are some interesting facts about exercising during your pregnancy. Some you may know, some startled even me!

ALWAYS get your doctor's permission before starting an exercise program during your pregnancy

Even if you did not exercise before you are pregnant, you CAN begin to exericse! Begin walking or simple exercises. Its not too late to start getting fit - for you and your baby!

Your goal - maintain, not train! Your pregnancy is NOT a time to reach for higher goals - don't train for a marathon now! Use this time to keep your fitness level the same - don't overdue it.

Listen to your body - the OLD ACOG guidelines recommended women not allow their heartrates to increase over 140bpm but that is OLD NEWS! The new recommendations tell women to listen to their bodies. On a scale of 1-10, you should be working at a 5-7 and no higher.

Remember, some days are better than others. Sometimes a workout may seem effortless, but other days the same workout will feel tough. Listen to your body and do what feels right.

Don't Stop Exercising!! Research has shown that women who exercise throughout their pregnancy and STOP at 36 weeks gain more weight than those who never exercised at all!! So even in that dreaded last month, keep moving. Walking, swimming, elliptical - are all great!!
Just some of the benefits of exercising during pregnancy to mom - lower chance of gestational diabetes, less discomfort, easier labor, faster weight loss after the baby is born, less depression, and much more!

So all you Pregnant Women out there - keep exercising. Your baby will thank you for it!!