Most people wrongly think that pregnancy is a time to rest and one must not indulge in too much activity. Rest is necessary but so is exercise; only the perfect balance between both will help you to stay fit and healthy before and after pregnancy.
It is true that you can get tired easily and simply not be in the mood to exercise on some days. This is especially true in the first few months when you are suffering from morning sickness. But the key is to stay active and follow a regular exercise regimen to ensure that you stay fit during this period. Being fit not only helps you while you are pregnant but also while you are in labor. A fit and healthy woman finds it much easier to tackle labor and has an easier delivery than one who has been lazy and feeding on junk food.
It is not necessary to hit the gym everyday during pregnancy; there are many exercises that you can take at home itself which will ensure that you stay fit. If you want to go to a gym or fitness center, then make sure that you have a personal trainer or a specialist who has enough experience in handling pregnant women as all types of exercises are not suitable during this time.
One of the key advantages of a regular fitness plan is that your muscles become toned and you get the strength and endurance that is needed during labor as well as for the postnatal period. You are bound to gain some weight during pregnancy; this is normal and hence the right exercises will aid you in carrying around the excess weight. Along with a fitness regimen, it is also important to take a nutritious diet to prevent any deficiencies and make up for the excess demand of nutrients during pregnancy.
A woman who has exercised regularly and kept herself fit will find it much easier to shed the excess kilos after delivery. The most important benefit that you derive from exercise and a fitness routine is that it helps to keep the energy levels up during this time as pregnancy can easily tire and wear you down. If you do not like to exercise at home or in a gym, then step out into Nature. A brisk walk everyday can do you a world of good for keeping fit and an outdoor walk can also lift up your spirits keeping your happy and refreshed.
Stretches are also good during pregnancy as it helps to ease the pains and aches that crop up during this period like lower back ache. Swimming can also be taken up but make sure that you have a trainer around to help you in case of any difficulty. Perform all your household activities like usual which is a very easy way to stay fit but make sure that you do not lift up very heavy objects which is not recommended.
To summarize, a regular fitness and exercise routine can be of immense help to stay fit and healthy during pregnancy.