Exercise During Pregnancy is Beneficial

for years women were told to "take it easy" during their pregnancy, but recent research demonstrates that exercise during pregnancy is beneficial to both the mother and the developing fetus--even if the mother had not been previously following an exercise program.

if you're active and become pregnant--STAY ACTIVE! but listen to your body. there is no need to follow the rule of keeping your HR below 130-140 bpm; however you will be fatigued and tired during the first trimester (your blood hemoglobin needs to increase in order to supply oxygen to both you and your fetus) so pay attention and if you're starting to fatigue--TAKE IT EASY!

Once your body catches up with the oxygen demands by producing more hemoglobin and oxygen carrying blood cells then your energy levels and endurance levels will greatly increase during the 2nd trimester--so have fun with the activity but monitor your body temp. the fetus will have trouble regulating temperature so try not to exercise indoors on an extremely hot day unless the gym has a great a/c system.

the rule of thumb of exercising while pregnant is to stay active 5-7 days/week and listen to your body....

recent research here:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090803122728.htm