Fit Pregnancy

In order to have a fit pregnancy, we will talk about two different aspects of pregnancy fitness - exercise and weight gain. Pregnancy and exercise should go hand in hand, but many women feel too fatigued and feel that it's just impossible to exercise during pregnancy. However, not only will exercise help you not be as fatigued, it will help to prevent excessive weight gain in pregnancy as well.

Benefits of Exercise During Pregnancy

• Pregnancy exercises will help you feel better and have less of a problem with mood swings with less risk of depression and anxiety.
• You are less likely to have swollen ankles if you exercise moderately.
• Insomnia won't be quite an issue because you'll feel more relaxed.
• Fatigue is actually lessened with moderate daily exercise, so if you can make yourself get up and go for that walk or swim you will be glad you did.
• Exercise can also make labor and delivery easier and quicker and also help you recover more quickly after the birth.
• It can also ease backaches and other aches and pains of pregnancy.
• Blood pressure and diabetes can be less of a risk in women who exercise during pregnancy.

Types of Pregnancy Exercises

Exercises that are low impact are best during pregnancy. Walking, cycling, swimming, yoga, and dancing are good pregnancy exercises. Avoid exercises that are rough or where falls could occur, such as horseback riding or contact sports. If in doubt, ask your healthcare provider for guidance.

Kegel exercises are a very important part of a fit pregnancy. These are pelvic floor exercises that help prepare your body for labor and delivery. The pelvic floor muscle is the same muscle you use to hold back your urine stream. To make sure you're working the right muscle, practice stopping your urine stream mid-flow. Tighten the pelvic floor muscles for 5 to 10 seconds, then relax for 5 seconds. Repeat 10-20 times three times a day.

Squats are also beneficial for preparing your body for delivery. Make sure you are near something to hold to in case you lose your balance, as your center of gravity as a pregnant woman is much different now.

I highly recommend exercise balls during pregnancy as well. They are very comfortable to sit on, are great for doing squats on to help exercise the pelvic muscles, and I found it indespensible for bouncing my second son after his birth (he didn't like to rock at first, and the only thing that calmed him many times was bouncing on the ball.)

Take care to not overdo your exercise routine, and make sure you drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise. Even if you were very fit before pregnancy, your body is quite different now, and you must listen to your body's signals of when to rest. If you feel dizzy or light headed, take a break. If you develop a headache or shortness of breath, take a break. Fluid or blood loss, abdominal pain, or decreased fetal movement are all signs that you should stop exercising and contact your doctor right away. Some women may not be able to exercise safely during pregnancy due to certain conditions or complications, so be sure to check with your doctor or midwife before starting any exercise program in pregnancy.

Weight Gain in Pregnancy

Fit Pregnancy There is nothing more important to a couple expecting a new baby than the issues of health. Fit Pregnancy is the only magazine dedicated to the health and fitness of the pregnant and postpartum woman and her newborn before, during and after pregnancy. Issues deliver safe workouts, nutrition guidance, meal plans, the latest medical news and reviews of new baby gear. The whole nine yards for the whole nine months.

Find Out About Pregnancy Diet and Nutrition During Pregnancy.

Go from Fit Pregnancy to Getting Pregnant Fast home.

If you or someone you know has gotten pregnant after first having difficulties, I would like to hear your story. This would encourage so many women who are trying to conceive and let them know, "If it's possible for her, maybe it can happen for me too." Your story will have its own web page where other women can post how beneficial your story has been to them. Please share, and post a picture if you can.