Why should pregnant women exercise regularly?
Improve physical health: Fitness expert Yash Agarwal - founder of Yash Fitness (India) said that regular exercise helps strengthen muscles, reduce back pain and improve posture for women during pregnancy.
Improve mental health: Physical activity increases endorphins, reducing stress, anxiety and depression. An analysis published in the journal Sports Health found that postpartum depression can be prevented by exercise.
Easier labor and delivery: Strengthened pelvic and core muscles will help labor go more smoothly and recovery time will be shorter.
Helps control weight: Exercise helps control weight during pregnancy. In a study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology MFM, a link was found between physical activity and a reduced risk of overweight and obesity in pregnant women.
Better blood circulation: Exercise reduces swelling and leg cramps in pregnant women by improving blood flow.
Preventing gestational diabetes: This type of diabetes only occurs when a woman is pregnant. According to the American Academy of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, exercise can reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is important for preventing gestational diabetes.
Things to keep in mind when exercising for pregnant women in winter
Pregnant women need to keep warm by wearing layers of clothing and making sure the exercise area is heated.
Drink water before, during and after exercise during winter pregnancy.
Exercise indoors to avoid slippery floors and falls.
Avoid overexertion when doing winter pregnancy exercises, keep your heart rate below 140 beats per minute.
After the first trimester, avoid winter exercises for pregnant women on the back to avoid reduced blood flow.
Stay active and do winter pregnancy exercises to stay healthy. However, listen to your body and stop if you feel pain, fatigue or discomfort. Before exercising, pregnant women should consult their doctor carefully.
