The most recent trend in parks, gyms and fitness studios around the world isn’t a pair of workout sneakers or stylish headphones, it’s a baby bump. The number of expecting moms who participate in an active pregnancy is steadily increasing, and more and more women recognize the importance of exercising. Working out is such a vital part of a healthy pregnancy that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests 20 to 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most or all days of the week. Physical exercise has been proven to improve overall health and wellness, and can also help with common discomforts and even prepare your body for labor and delivery.

Is Exercise During Pregnancy Safe?

Things have drastically changed since the distant past. A few decades ago, expecting moms were talked out of exercising during pregnancy. Today, they’re talked into staying active during and after their pregnancy. In most cases, exercise is safe to be practiced by expecting moms. The rule is that if you were physically active before pregnancy, its likely safe for you to stay active during pregnancy. Unless exercise makes you feel uncomfortable, and there are some health conditions involved, exercising is highly safe and recommended. If you have a medical problem, such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes, exercise may not be advisable. Moreover, exercising doesn’t put you at risk for miscarriage, as previously believed.

Regular exercise is a win-win for the mom and the baby. The safest and most productive activities are swimming, brisk walking, indoor stationary cycling, step or elliptical machines, and low-impact aerobics. A working out session should consist of warming up for five minutes and stretching for five minutes. You should include at least fifteen minutes of cardiovascular activity.

Women who want to keep practicing yoga, running and generally keeping fit and active throughout pregnancy are highly recommended to get a maternity belt. Pregnancy belts are quality support belts that make pregnancy more comfortable, reduce pregnancy pains, and offer gentle support when you’re active. They will compress the abdomen, support your uterus and reduce any discomfort from movement during physical exercise. Take a look at The GABRIALLA Collection that is designed to assist moms-to-be from their first trimester through postpartum recovery period.

What are the Core Benefits?

The benefits of regular exercise will begin immediately and last you your whole life. The most important benefits include:

1. Weight loss. Staying active will help you lose a few pounds and feel better about yourself. Studies show that active women might put on 7 pounds less than pregnant women who don’t exercise.
2. Mood boost. Research has found that regular exercise during pregnancy can reduce depression, releasing endorphins that improve mood while lowering stress and anxiety. Since women are more prone to depression during pregnancy, this is one of the greatest benefits exercise can offer.
3. Prepare for childbirth. The better shape you’re in, the better you’ll cope with labor. Giving birth is an intense process that requires strength, stamina, determination, and focus. That’s why regular exercise is a solid preparation for the tough work that awaits. Exercising may ease labor, shorten the time it takes to deliver the baby, and ensures your baby’s birth goes smoothly.
4. Improved sleep. Exercise can assist in managing restlessness and disturbed sleep during pregnancy. Pregnant women find it harder to find a comfortable sleeping position but this can be eased with the help of regular exercise. Working out will work off any excess energy, lull you into a deeper sleep, and you’ll wake up more rested.
5. Lower risk of pregnancy-related complications. Many studies suggest that exercising can lower the risk of developing preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Women who participate in regular exercise at least four times a week are less likely to develop these conditions and are less likely to have unplanned cesarean sections than those who don't exercise. Another study shows that women who stayed active were less likely to have babies with macrosomia which can lead to complications during delivery.

 Find out how running can benefit your pregnancy lifestyle here