Exercise During Pregnancy

Even if you haven’t worked out much in the past, being pregnant is a great reason to start. Exercising during pregnancy is safe for the most part. Plus, it has many benefits, and helps you through your pregnancy.

How does exercising during pregnancy help?

Exercising during pregnancy can:

  • Help boost your energy, which is often low during pregnancy.
  • Reduce aches and pains caused by the changes happening in your body.
  • Help you avoid constipation, which is common during pregnancy.
  • Release chemicals in your brain called endorphins, which boost your mood.
  • Help you stay in good shape, which may mean you’ll have easier labor and delivery.

What activities can I do during pregnancy?

Talk to your OB provider first about which activities are safe for you. They will know what’s best for you based on your health history. For the most part, many activities are safe during pregnancy. It doesn’t matter whether you had Zumba classes, did ab workouts or even went running before pregnancy. You can keep doing these things during pregnancy.

If you’re new to exercising, here are some pregnancy-friendly activities you can try:

  • Walking
  • Swimming
  • Riding a Stationary Bike
  • Yoga or Pilates
  • Low-Impact Aerobics Classes
  • Light Weights

Want other ideas? Check out the full list of safe activities during pregnancy.

What activities should I avoid during pregnancy?

Talk to your OB provider first about activities to avoid. They will know what’s best for you based on your health history. For the most part, try to avoid exercises after the first trimester that cause you to lie flat on your back. It’s also wise to avoid any activities that include:

  • Bouncing
  • Jarring (Anything that would cause a lot of up and down movement)
  • Leaping
  • A sudden change of direction
  • A risk of abdominal injury

This would mean avoiding contact sports like basketball, softball or kickboxing.

What else should you avoid while pregnant? Explore other activities that aren’t safe during pregnancy.

Have questions about eating healthy while pregnant?

Call our Mom and Baby Beginnings at 1-833-230-2034 (TTY: 711).