Exercise
It's a good idea to exercise during your pregnancy, as long as you are sensible. Regular exercise will help you get back in shape once the baby is born, as well as giving you more energy to cope with looking after him or her.
If you want to start a new exercise routine, especially one that is vigorous, check with your GP or midwife first. Excellent exercises during pregnancy are anything that is 'low impact', i.e. anything that doesn't have you jumping around, such as swimming, cycling (on an exercise bike), yoga or pilates. There are also specialist ante-natal classes available at some leisure and health centres. Telephone your local health centres for details of classes.
Exercise safely
Always check with your doctor before starting any new form of exercise. If you are continuing an existing exercise programme, be prepared to cut down on the amount you do as your pregnancy advances.
- Stop immediately if you feel faint, light-headed or breathless during exercise.
- Always exercise at a gentle, rhythmical pace and avoid making jerky or bouncing movements.
- Listen to your body and don't push yourself if you become tired or your muscles begin to ache.
- If you attend classes or go to the gym tell your instructor that you are pregnant.
- Start to reduce the amount of exercise you do as your pregnancy advances.
- Never skip the warm-up or cool down stretches when doing aerobic exercise.
