Pregnancy can be physically draining, but it is very important that pregnant women get enough physical activity throughout the day. Pregnant women may choose to exercise to gain energy and stay fit, and a terrific way to exercise is through a class. Fortunately, there are a variety of prenatal exercise classes available to pregnant women.
One of the most common and popular prenatal exercise classes is pregnancy or prenatal yoga. Prenatal yoga slightly differs from regular yoga. During prenatal yoga, only poses that are gentle and effective on a pregnant body are performed.
Another popular exercise class that many women flock to is pregnancy aerobics. There are numerous benefits to doing low-impact aerobics throughout pregnancy. Aerobics are perfect for maintaining muscle tones, as well as strengthening the heart and lungs. In low-impact aerobics, women are urged to keep one foot on the ground at all times. They are also advised against vigorous aerobic moves such as fast running, jumping, leaping, or high kicks.
Pilates is another great exercise course available to pregnant women. Pilates is an exercise based on yoga and meditation, which emphasizes stretching and deep breathing. It can be a relaxing way for an expectant mother to stay in shape.
Prenatal water workouts are another safe, low-impact exercise for pregnant women. Gyms and pools are increasingly offering water workouts classes such as water jogging, and aqua aerobics classes. Many women prefer exercising in water because it reduces the risk of injuries. Additionally, the water’s temperature can keep a woman from overheating or becoming dehydrated during a workout session.
When choosing prenatal exercise classes, there are several things that pregnant women would do well to avoid. They should avoid exercises that involve severe stretching. They should also stay away from exercise classes that include bouncing, and classroom instructors who encourage women to hold their breath.
It’s wise that pregnant women don’t over exert themselves during a workout. If they are huffing and puffing to the point where they cannot have a conversation, they are likely exercising too intensely. It’s also best that expectant mothers keep a bottle of water at hand to prevent dehydration. Before starting any exercise program, a woman should consult an obstetrician or midwife to determine if the exercise is safe.
Exercising during pregnancy has many benefits. Prenatal exercise classes give women the opportunity to maintain physical health throughout their pregnancy, while enjoying the benefits of meeting other women in the same life stage. Exercise can also boost energy levels, help a woman sleep better, and even reduce pregnancy symptoms. Some women report being better prepared for labor due to regular prenatal exercise classes.
