6 Myths About Exercising During Pregnancy

Many years back, it is a common practice to advise women to stay off exercise during pregnancy. But today, we have developed in knowledge through various findings and research that not only is exercise beneficial to the ‘mother-to-be’, participating in different exercise sessions also does lots of good to the unborn baby.

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During pregnancy, it is good that women stay physically fit as it delivers lots of health benefits to both the baby and the mother. Exercising for at least 30 minutes in most days of the week can help pregnant women feel better both mentally and physically.

A few more benefits of exercise during pregnancy include:

• It helps treat and prevent gestational diabetes
• When the time is ripe, it causes a shorter time in labor
• It increases women’s energy
• Could help them get better sleep
• Could help reduce bloating, backaches, swelling, and constipation
• Enhances muscle tone, endurance, and strength

However, despite all these benefits locked up in exercise for pregnant women, it’s unfortunate to know so many myths and rumors have successfully kept many away from it. Many of these myths which had gained their origin from popular pregnancy books, old wives’ tales and outdated neighborhood advice had left many women confused about what is right to do and not to do when it comes to exercising during pregnancy.

Some of the popular myths are:

#1 Myth: The Right Time to Exercise Is Not During Pregnancy

Even if you have never really exercised before, you can decide to start an exercise program during pregnancy; it’s a safe and ideal time to start such.

To do this, there are some safe exercises you can engage in. they are moderate exercise or activity that can be done for approximately 150 minutes per week. Some include walking, swimming, dancing, and running. The most important thing you just need to consider while choosing any exercise plan is to go for those ones that won’t cause you to lose your balance because having a fall during pregnancy can be very serious; so, stay clear of horseback riding or riding a bike.

#2 Myth: Exercise could result in dangerous overheating and dehydration

During the first trimester, overheating could actually be dangerous to your baby’s development. But preparing for this during exercise by drinking plenty water before, during and after exercise to stay hydrated can help resolve it.

#3 Myth: Your Heart Rate Must Not Be Over 140 Beats Per Minute

Actually, there is no one heart rate for every pregnant woman. Therefore, unless your doctor recommends you stick to light exercises like walking, yoga, or lighting light weights, the best way to prepare for the hardest laps of your pregnancy (the last 3 months) and ease up labor is to get a minimum of 30 of moderate exercise on most days.

#4 Myth: Exercise Will Only Sap Your Energy and Make You Exhausted

That’s not correct, because a little exercise can actually go a long way in boosting your energy while getting too much rest can make you feel more tired.

#5 Myth: The Only Benefit of Exercise is to Help You Lose Weight Easily After Delivery

It is true, exercise is a vital component of postpartum weight loss, but the benefits embedded in exercising during pregnancy transcend far beyond just losing weight. It can also greatly help reduce your risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases.

#6 Myth: Running Is Not Safe for Pregnant Women

Running is actually one of the safe exercises a pregnant woman can engage herself. All that must be put in mind is doing the running on a level ground and on safe footwear to avoid falls.

Disclaimer
Please note that individual results will vary from person to person. All and any information and statements contained in this article are not intended to replace your doctor’s advice or treatment. We do not provide medical advice, prescription, or diagnose illness. Therefore, our views and nutritional statements are not intended to replace your doctor’s medical advice. If you have a health concern or condition, see your doctor before starting anything you could read here.