Exercise while pregnant – but choose with care

[11 October 2007 - 14h29]

So, you’re pregnant? There’s no reason why you shouldn’t go on enjoying exercise. Choose one that will avoid you being exposed to any sudden movement or impact. The best forms of exercise during pregnancy are endurance-based, involving prolonged and gradual effort.

Walking for example is suitable for all women, even the least sporty amongst us and can be continued throughout the whole of our pregnancy. Swimming is also recommended as it increases cardiac capacity without putting strain on your joints. But whatever form of exercise you take, don’t forget to warm up first. It’s crucial. Also try to choose the most suitable time of day to exercise, avoiding particularly hot periods.

Taking exercise can help you when it comes to giving birth. Most studies show that labour is shorter, there is better dilation of neck of the womb and that the period of expulsion is also shorter. Furthermore, women who practice some form of sport during pregnancy tends to gain less weight. Physical exercise also helps to prevent stretch marks and reduces the rate of venous complications.

However, exercise must be graded… And you must make sure you rest too. For example, if you walk for an hour, relax for the same amount of time. And, most importantly, seek the advice of your doctor or midwife before embarking on any form of exercise.

Unsurprisingly, certain sports such as underwater diving and parachuting are strictly out of bounds for mums-to-be. And others that might seem acceptable are also better avoided. This is true of all combat sports, horse riding and tennis, mainly because of the risk of trauma (sprains, etc).

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