Exercise during pregnancy is good for both mother and baby

BY: SAMANTHA MONTPETIT-HUYNH / Beaches Metro / VOLUME 36 NO.8 / JUNE 12, 2007

Pregnancy is a very exciting, overwhelming, but often exhausting time in life. Because your body is going through so many internal and external changes, many women take this time to put their feet up, eat and “enjoy” the next nine months. However tempting this may sound, leading a sedentary lifestyle during your pregnancy could potentially cause you more discomfort and stress in the long run. There is no evidence that supports you must stop exercising just because you are pregnant.

Though this may sound easier said than done, exercising during your pregnancy has been proven time and time again to benefit both mother and baby during gestation and postpartum. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and The Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology (CSEP) have both developed guidelines with specific heart rate, cardiovascular and strength training principles to help alleviate any concerns women may have that may deter them from participating in an exercise program.

On the other hand, Dr. James F. Clapp, an international authority and researcher on the effects of exercise in pregnancy, supports a more liberal approach. He believes as every woman and pregnancy differs, so should their exercise routine. Depending on the fitness level of the individual prior to pregnancy, this helps to determine the intensity that they can endure during their pregnancy.

Here are just a few benefits of exercising during pregnancy:

• Increases energy
• Alleviates stress
• Decreases back pain
• Facilitates circulation
• Helps avoid excessive weight gain
• Prepares body for extra weight load
• Builds endurance and strength required for labour
• Helps reduce the chance of postpartum depression
• Helps return of pre-pregnancy weight

In view of the advantages, however, it is recommended that you consult your physician and/or OBGYN prior to starting or continuing an exercise program. There are certain physical and health-related conditions where exercise may be contraindicated.

If you are already pregnant and are still weary about starting to exercise, just remember to start slow, but make it consistent! Walking is the best form of exercise for anyone. 20-30 minutes 3+ times per week is not only good for mother, but baby as well! Research has shown that babies of exercising mothers tolerate contractions better, are less stressed during labour and are more alert after delivery. So take advantage of this time to make this the best and healthiest pregnancy for the both of you!