Exercising During and After Pregnancy – What Type of Exercise is Best?

Pregnancy is an exciting time for any woman, but like all exciting times it brings with it plenty of changes! Most notably, changes occur to a woman’s body and posture, with extra baby weight leading to increased appetite, decreased energy levels and poor posture.

Is it Safe to Exercise during Pregnancy?

It’s important that you are strong and fit for childbirth and the challenges that lie ahead, after your baby is born! You need to be cautious when selecting an exercise program, and always consult with your GP before embarking on any exercise regime.

What sort of Exercise is Best during Pregnancy?

Many women experience discomfort such as back or neck pain, due to poor posture from the extra weight they are carrying. Gentle pilates exercises, designed specifically for pre natal women, can help to combat this discomfort and strengthen your back and core muscles. Pilates is also a relaxing exercise that can help you to relieve any stress you may be feeling, and help your baby to relax also! If you aren’t in too much pain, swimming or gentle cycling can work those leg and arm muscles and loosen your body up. Perhaps you might be interested in an electric bike which would be much smoother and easier to use – you can find out more here. Whatever you choose, be sure to take it slowly so you are keeping you and your baby safe.

At Ivana Daniell we specialise in Pilates instruction. Why not pop into our studio to find the best post natal Pilates Chelsea has to offer?

Post Natal Exercise

Taking time for yourself is important, even though your new baby is now the most important thing in your world. Try to take time out for at least two short weekly exercise sessions to reinvigorate your mind and body. You will feel like a new person afterward! Pilates and other postural alignment exercises can usually be started around a month after giving birth (slightly longer if you have had a C-Section). In case of surgery, additional pelvic floor exercises are needed as well. New moms can find professionals helping with Post Surgical Needs NYC (or elsewhere) to work on their pelvic health post a C-section. These exercises can assist in tightening your pelvic floor muscles that have been put under strain during delivery, and restoring your postural alignment, which has been changed during your 9-month pregnancy. They can also help to realign your muscles, bringing back the flat stomach you miss so much! Exercising regularly will also help your energy levels and assist in losing your excess baby weight.

It is vital to exercise during and after your pregnancy, not only for your own energy levels, fitness and happiness, but for the well being of your baby too! Make sure that you always consult a medical professional before starting any kind of fitness program, and attend classes with a qualified professional, who can tailor exercises to suit your individual requirements. There are many qualified postural alignment experts in London and the UK who specialise in customising routines for pregnant women or new mothers, and who will be able to advise you on the best type of exercise to take for your health and well being.