You might think that being pregnant means that a woman is given free license to eat whatever she craves while also allowing herself extra time off her feet. However, fitness expert Sara Haley says that’s not true: Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you should get a nine-month vacation from exercise.
“The better shape you’re in, the better shape that baby is going to be in,” she says. “A lot of women have back pain during pregnancy because they don’t have the muscle surrounding their joints to support the new weight they’re carrying; so the stronger you are during your pregnancy, more than likely, the less pain you’re going to have.”
Haley recommends talking to your doctor about the kind of exercise you’re going to do before starting a routine — and don’t try a new regimen that includes exercises you aren’t used to.
Haley explains, “Anything you’ve done before you were pregnant can be done in moderation while you’re pregnant: smaller amounts, less impact and slower.”
Keep in mind that your body is preparing for quite a physical feat, and staying in shape will help you prepare for it.
“I’ve heard a lot of people compare it to a marathon,” Haley says of giving birth, adding that getting your body in shape will ensure a quicker recovery.
