During first trimester of pregnancy, people should aim to gradually establish good exercise habits. The right amount of exercise for a person will depend on how active they were before becoming pregnant.
It is best to prefer low impact exercises – especially walking, yoga, swimming and water aerobics during this period.
Some slightly more vigorous exercises may also be appropriate in the first trimester. Examples of these include running, jogging and moderate weight lifting.
A person should talk to a doctor, if possible, before starting any new exercises or workout routines.
The best exercises in early pregnancy
The following exercises are recommended for people during early pregnancy:
1. Kegels
Kegel exercises, or pelvic floor exercises, work to strengthen the muscles that support the abdominal organs, including the uterus, vagina, bowel, and bladder.
These exercises also help maintain bladder control and can reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.
With an empty bladder, squeeze your Kegel muscles and hold the contraction for 5 to 10 seconds before relaxing. Try to avoid using any surrounding muscles, such as those of the buttocks, legs or abs.
2. Walking and jogging
Walking on a flat, even surface is one of the gentlest, low-impact forms of exercise, making it ideal for pregnant women.
Swinging the arms in wide, rhythmic motions while walking can lead to a modest increase in heart rate. Walking in a calm, natural environment can also help promote well-being and relaxation.
A person who is not used to walking could start by taking a few 10-minute walks each week. During the first trimester, people can gradually take 30-minute walks three to five times a week if they want to.
People who are used to running can gradually transition from walking to jogging during the first trimester, as long as they use a flat, level surface.
Anyone doing long walks or runs should wear supportive shoes that fit properly.
3. Swimming and water aerobics
Swimming and water aerobics are low-impact exercises that can help keep the body toned and don’t pose a risk of falling.
If a person is used to swimming or doing water aerobics, their usual routine will often be safe during the first trimester of pregnancy.
If a person is new to swimming, they may want to start by doing two or three 30-minute lessons each week. Once they are more confident, they could do 30-minute sessions a few times a week or as often as feels comfortable for them.
4. Yoga
Yoga allows people to gently stretch and strengthen their bodies. It also encourages mindfulness skills that can be very helpful during labor, such as controlled breathing and meditation.
Many yoga studios offer pregnancy classes. People who are new to yoga could try to attend one 30-minute session a week.
People who are used to yoga can often continue their usual routine during early pregnancy.
A person may want to ask a doctor if there are specific movements, such as lying on the back, that they should avoid.
5. Pilates
Pilates can improve core strength and balance, which can reduce the risk of falling. It can also help with convenience backache associated with weight gain, especially in the front of the body.
People new to Pilates could start gradually by doing a few sessions a week, each lasting 5 to 10 minutes. They can then attend 30- to 60-minute sessions.
Pregnant women who are used to Pilates can often maintain their usual routine during the first trimester.
Again, a person may want to ask a doctor if there are specific movements they should avoid.
Many studios and gyms offer prenatal Pilates classes, and similar classes are available online.
6. Low intensity weight training
During the first trimester of pregnancy, it is generally safe to do some moderate weight lifting.
Using free weights and weight machines can help a person manage their weight and improve their overall strength. Having a stronger core can also help improve stability and reduce the risk of falling.
People should take care to keep the fetus safe by keeping the weights in a safe place. They should also consult a doctor, if possible, to determine if there are specific movements they should avoid.
People who are new to lifting weights should start gradually and use light free weights.
7. Spinning lessons or stationary bike cycling
Off-road cycling, such as mountain biking, is not a good choice for pregnant women due to the risk of falling and injury.
stationary bikes, spin classesand safe, level cycling routes are all alternatives with significantly less risk.
People who are new to stationary cycling could try cycling for 10-15 minutes at a time. They could then extend their sessions to 30-60 minutes if they are comfortable.
If a person is used to spinning or using a stationary bike, they can often maintain their regular routine during the first trimester.
You are doing
Pregnant women should aim for low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise that results in light sweating and slight increases in heart rate.
Some tips for safe exercise during the first trimester include the following:
1. Stay hydrated.
2. Stay cool and wear loose clothing.
3. Wear well-fitting, supportive, non-slip shoes.
4. Recognize when to exercise less often or reduce intensity.
5. Set realistic goals and try to stick to them.
6. Remember to breathe and watch your heart rate during workouts.
7. Whenever a person feels tired or weak, it is important to stop and rest.
No
To avoid complications, pregnant women should avoid:
1. high impact exercises
2. contact sports
3. exercises with a high risk of falling, such as gymnastics or aerial sports
4. high-intensity exercise that raises heart rate and breathing to such an extent that it is difficult to speak
5. Exercises that put frightening pressure on basin and the torso, like riding
6. exercises or environments that increase the risk of overheating
Stop exercising when you experience:
1. he experiences nausea
2. they are dehydrated
3. they start to overheat
4. feel dizzy or lightheaded
5. have difficulty breathing
6. have an uncomfortable or unstable heart rhythm
7. they have a headache
Stop exercising during pregnancy when
Is it safe to do planks while pregnant?
While planks won’t pose a risk to you or your baby during pregnancy, there are certain types of core exercises you should avoid. While pregnant, avoid any exercises that involve: Twisting or squatting. Lying on your stomach.
Can I squat during the first trimester?