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The importance of exercise during pregnancy

Thursday, 21st September 2017


Do you know the importance of exercise during pregnancy?

Throughout pregnancy women should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity each week.

Many women believe that during pregnancy you should not exercise, which is definitely not the case!

Daily exercise won't harm you or your baby, and may even help to prevent complications, such as pre-eclampsia and can even help you to have a shorter labour. It also acts as a way of managing your blood sugar levels, for those who have developed diabetes during pregnancy.

Being active and exercising regularly will help you to keep pregnancy niggles, such as backache and pelvic pain, constipation and tiredness, at bay. It can make you feel better about the changes that are happening to your body, help you to maintain a healthy weight, reduce the chances of getting depression, contribute towards getting a better night’s sleep, and prepares both your body and mind for the demands of labour.

It is essential however that you do not overdo do it, brisk walking, swimming, and aqua-natal classes are all forms of safe exercise; pregnancy yoga and pilates are also good for strengthening and toning.

However, getting back into shape after your baby is born is also key to a healthy lifestyle for both you and your baby. Not only does it improve your health, mental health and wellbeing, it also provides a chance for you to develop a strong bond with your baby.

Fortunately Pendle Leisure Trust offer a wide range of pregnancy and mums and baby classes such as, Aquanatal, Buggy Bootcamp, Baby Massage, sensory sessions, Aquababies, Mums and Babes, and Turtle Tots.

For more advice and information on the classes we offer, please contact your local Pendle Leisure Trust leisure centre, or view our timetable section.

Remember, it’s essential to listen to your body and adapt to your body’s changes, everyone is different!