Busting 5 Myths About Prenatal Exercises

Do not be afraid to exercise while pregnant just because of some misconceptions and heresy. This is a myths buster guide that offers workout tips for pregnant women. In the contemporary society, women have first-hand information regarding prenatal workouts but when they think of getting down to business, several myths and fallacies hold them back. Pregnant women stop exercising due to fear but after reading this guide, any expectant mother will be at ease and exercise as required.

Myth 1: Abs exercises during pregnancy are not good

The only abs workouts a pregnant woman should avoid are crunches because they could hurt the back after the first 3 months. The developing womb may compress vena cava hence reduce the amount of blood flowing into the heart. Nevertheless, there are many more ways to work the abs. The best abs workouts for pregnant women are those doe while kneeling or standing. It is very important to train the core in preparation for delivery. A simple exercise involves standing and breathing out to draw the navel towards the spine.

Myth 2: Strength training can lead to injury.

During pregnancy, relaxin hormone is produced in large amounts to make ligaments relax as they get ready for delivery. Studies show that performing low to moderate strength training is very safe eve for a woman who has never done them before. It is normal to feel dizzy and pelvic pains in the early days of learning breathing techniques. However, intense training should be avoided to prevent increase I blood pressure bodyweight workouts like squats and push-ups, free weights, and machine exercises are safe when done in proper techniques. Some women fear that squatting might stimulate labor but that’s not true. Those new to weight training should learn the right forms from experts.

Myth 3: It is dangerous to start exercising when pregnant if you never did it before

This is a very wrong notion because pregnancy period is the right time to start moving. No case has shown that walking is unsafe for pregnant moms, even novices. The only danger is leading a sedentary lifestyle because this would cause increase in weight, back pain, high blood pressure, gestation diabetes, and increase the possibility for cesarean section. Statistics show that 70%-80% of women who experience gestational diabetes later develop diabetes type II and they also put their babies at the risk of diabetes and obesity.

If your pregnancy has no complications, it is recommended that you at least walk for 30 to 60 minutes every day; breaking between sessions. Moderate pace is the key but gut-busting sprints are not good exercises during pregnancy.