5 Benefits of Having a Fitness Routine During Your Pregnancy
Mar 14, 2024From Bump to Birth: Here are 5 Benefits of Working Out During Your Pregnancy
After recently celebrating International Women’s Day and full-on embracing Women’s History MonthToday, I want to talk about a topic close to my heart: prenatal fitness. Let me be frank... women. are. powerhouses! Pregnancy is such a beautiful journey, and maintaining an active lifestyle during this time can have incredible benefits for both mama and baby. As a fitness guru and certified girl’s girl, I've delved into the research to bring you the top five benefits of working out while pregnant, backed by science.
Boosted Mood and Reduced Stress: It’s no secret that pregnancy hormones can send emotions on a rollercoaster ride, but regular exercise can be your ticket to a smoother journey. Studies from the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada have shown that staying active during pregnancy can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Plus, carving out that time for yourself can provide a much-needed mental break from the stresses of pregnancy (and let’s be honest, life in general).
Improved Physical Health: Contrary to popular belief, pregnancy isn't a time to put your feet up and binge-watch Netflix (although there's nothing wrong with a little binge now and then!). Engaging in moderate exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, and even ease some of those pesky pregnancy symptoms like back pain and swelling.
Enhanced Labor and Delivery: Labor is often described as one of the most challenging workouts a woman will ever experience. So, it makes sense to prepare your body for the big event, right? Well, studies suggest that staying active during pregnancy can lead to shorter labor times, decreased likelihood of interventions like epidurals or cesarean sections, and a speedier postpartum recovery.
Bonding with Baby: Did you know that exercise during pregnancy can actually benefit your little one too?! Journal of Pregnancy released research that indicates that maternal exercise can lead to healthier birth weights, improved cardiovascular health, and even enhanced brain development in babies. Plus, those feel-good hormones released during workouts can create a positive environment for baby, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.
Postpartum Benefits: The benefits of prenatal fitness don't end once baby arrives. Women who stay active during pregnancy are more likely to bounce back faster postpartum, both physically and mentally. Regular exercise can help combat the baby blues, improve sleep quality, and boost energy levels during those exhausting newborn days.
As with any exercise regimen, it's crucial to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider before starting or continuing a prenatal fitness routine. Every pregnancy is different, and what works for one mama may not work for another. But with the right guidance and support, staying active during pregnancy can be one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your little one.
So, to all my mamas-to-be out there, keep moving, keep glowing, and remember: you're so much stronger than you think!
Xo,
Coach Tatiana
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