Best exercise when pregnant

Hello Patricia,

Having this conversation with the doctor is best. I like walking, since, we are made to walk, then free weights for strength moves and daily stretching. Remember to talk to the doctor about what you want to do and take their advice.

Take care.

Hi Patricia,

First, get cleared by your doctor — especially if you have a history of preterm labor or certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure. But I would recommend swimming (great during pregnancy because it doesn’t have any impact on your joints), jogging (if you already are), resistance training (if you already are) and walking. The photo in my profile is me 6 months after having my son this past February. I maintained the physical activities I was already doing. Post-pregnancy I added lots of lunges, squats and cardio (plyometrics and kenpo).

I worked out during my entire pregnancies. However, it’s always best to have great communication with your OBGYN and to listen to your body!
The common sense in me says, don’t start anything new, do what you have been doing, make modifications and adjustments along the way, take a nap if need be and don’t sky dive!
The professional in me says abide by your doctor!

When I became pregnant, I switched from practicing Aikido to practicing Tai Chi, I swam a lot (it feels so good to feel the weightlessness especially toward the end of the pregnancy), and walked on the beach a lot.

Lap swimming also helps to get rid of the extra 5 lbs that stays around your mid torso very stubbornly 🙂

Unless you have complications, continue impact-free exercises as long as you feel good 🙂

Cardiovascular exercise provide the most benefits to you and your baby. ACOG recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate level aerobic exercise on most days of the weeks.
But in the big picture, the best type exercise for you is what you like best, as this is what you’ll get the most enjoyment from and actually do.
BeFit-Mom