Staying Fit and Healthy - The Best Exercises During Pregnancy

The Importance of Safe and Effective Exercises During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative time for women.  Sometimes moms have an easy time adjusting to all changes while some will face more challenges.  Regardless of how your pregnancy is progressing, staying active and maintaining an exercise routine tailored to your changing body is crucial. Incorporating the best exercises during pregnancy not only supports your overall health but also prepares you physically for the challenges of labor and postpartum recovery.

It is always better to be proactive to stay healthy during your prenatal period than trying to achieve post-natal corrective exercises. Childbirth is an incredible process our bodies go through - so inevitably sometimes our bodies will require corrective exercises after giving birth. But if we can do as much as possible to allow for an easier birthing process - that is always recommended. Let's get started on the best exercises during pregnancy.

1. Low-Impact Cardiovascular Exercises 

One of the best exercises during pregnancy include low-impact cardiovascular exercise.

These are exercises that provide a heart-healthy way to stay fit without putting excessive strain on joints and ligaments. Options such as swimming, walking, and stationary cycling are ideal for maintaining cardiovascular health throughout pregnancy. Living in Canada and the snow-ridden winters we get, swimming and stationary cycling was wonderful ways to stay toasty-warm while getting in the exercise in!

2. Prenatal Yoga

Prenatal yoga is a wonderful, gentle and relaxing way to stay active! Prenatal yoga combines gentle stretching, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques to enhance flexibility, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. It's an excellent way to connect with your body and the growing life inside. Many of our clients have shared they found it to be one of the best exercises during pregnancy.

3. Strength Training for Pregnancy

Engaging in safe strength training can be performed at home, in a gym, if even with a toddler in tow. Strength training for pregnancy helps build and tone muscles, providing essential support for your changing body. Focus on exercises targeting the core, back, and pelvic floor muscles to alleviate common discomforts associated with pregnancy. If you are a busy mom, these types of exercises can be performed when you have an extra moment around the house. Weight can be as simple as a water bottle that you have on hand. Every bit of efforts counts in helping you in staying active during pregnancy!

4. Pelvic Floor Exercises

One of the best exercises during pregnancy is finding a trusted Pelvic Floor Professional in Toronto to learn Prenatal pelvic floor exercises and post natal training. Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, contribute to better bladder control and can aid in the prevention of pelvic floor issues. These exercises strengthen the muscles to assist with pushing, as well as exercises that allow for better functioning of the uterus, cervix and bowel muscles. 

5. Prenatal Pilates

There are so much benefits of Prenatal Pilates is designed to improve posture, strengthen the core, and enhance overall body awareness. Prenatal Piles is one of the best exercises during pregnancy because of its low-impact option that focuses on controlled movements and breath, providing a safe and effective workout for expectant mothers. 

As a Toronto maternity photographer, I pose our expecting moms in beautiful poses that they may find a bit awkward at first. During a maternity portrait session, posing moms with a belly is different than posing for a regular family portrait.  That's because we want to accentuate the beauty of the baby bump.  We want to see all the incredible curves and in entirety of mom's pregnancy glow.  While posing, mom who stay active tend to have more mobility and can achieve poses more challenges, as more muscles are activated during the process to stay balanced.  But really, either way, there are many beautiful portraits we can create, no matter your activity level or mobility.  Stay tuned for our new blog where we talk about how to pose during a maternity photoshoot.

That being said, this is one of the rest why every mom-to-be should consider a professional maternity shoot. We will help you capture the most incredible moments for you to treasure to many years to come.  

In conclusion, staying active during pregnancy is a gift to both you and your baby. The best exercises during pregnancy contribute to a healthier, more comfortable journey, preparing your body for the incredible experience of childbirth and beyond. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so tailor your exercise routine to your individual needs and enjoy the benefits of a fit and healthy pregnancy.