Staying Active While You’re Expecting
Feeling fit during pregnancy is just as important to your mental health as your physical health. Here are some fun and safe activities suggested by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists*:
Walking
About a 12- to 15-minute mile is great before, during and after pregnancy. If you're new to the joys of exercise, this is an especially good starting point. As you get fit, pick up the pace!
Swimming
Swimming is excellent because it uses both large muscle groups (arms and legs). It’s also both cardiovascular and low-impact. It tones the body, and the water supports your weight. During the later months of pregnancy, however, you shouldn't dive.
Jogging
Jogging is fine in moderation if you did it before you became pregnant. But since there's a greater risk of falling down when you’re pregnant, you should do it cautiously. Avoid becoming overheated and drink plenty of water to replace what you lose through sweating.
Tennis
A moderately paced game of tennis can be fun if you played tennis before you became pregnant, but doubles are preferred. You may have problems with balance and sudden stops, so watch your step.
Skiing
Skiing can be a great activity, but because of the danger of serious injuries and hard falls, stick to gentle slopes. You may have problems with balance, although some skiers find the altered center of gravity more favorable. A safer choice is cross-country skiing, which is also much better for building cardiovascular fitness. Skiing at very high altitudes (above 10,000 feet) is not advised.
Golfing and Bowling
Keeping your balance during the later months of pregnancy may pose a problem, but golfing and bowling can be fun recreations.
Source: BabyCenter.com
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