Late Pregnancy Exercises
As you progress through your pregnancy, you most likely want to be active with some form of safe exercise. However, it’s important not to push your body too hard and cause stress on the baby.
Generally, exercising during pregnancy is safe as long as you partake in activities that you did before pregnancy, because your body will be used to it. There are late-term pregnancy exercises that will keep you moving while remaining safe for the baby.
Walking
Walking is a great way to keep your body moving and increase your heart rate during pregnancy, while still being very gentle on your body. Walking is very low impact, does not require any sudden movements and keeps your heart rate elevated and steady without taking it too high.
Try walking around your block every morning or afternoon, or walking your dog. If the weather does not permit you to walk outside, walk on a treadmill for half an hour while watching TV or reading a book. The activity will probably empower you and cause you to feel better about yourself.
Swimming
Swimming is a very relaxing and safe pregnancy exercise. The buoyancy of the water takes the weight off your feet and knees, giving you a peaceful feeling of weightlessness. The water also automatically adds a light resistance, so it has a toning quality on your muscles.
Slowly swimming the length of the pool or holding onto the side and kicking in the water are great ways to exercise during pregnancy without adding risk to the baby.
Yoga
Yoga is a popular late-term pregnancy exercise because it helps you stretch muscles that are probably cramping and sore at this point. The rhythmic breathing, soft music and meditation of yoga will help you clear your mind and relax your body while stretching and toning your joints and muscles.
Go to a beginner’s yoga class, or even a yoga class specifically for pregnant women, and be sure to speak with your instructor about your specific pregnancy case. Pay attention to your body. If you feel like you can’t do a pose, just sit it out and wait until the next activity.
Aerobics
Aerobics is a safe pregnancy exercise, as long as it’s low impact and you speak with your instructor about your pregnancy. One excellent aerobic activity you may appreciate is moving.
Dancing is a safe way to increase your heart rate and get moving without putting too much strain on your body. If you don’t feel comfortable dancing in an organized class, dance in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
