3 Myths about Pregnancy and Exercise Debunked!

Pregnancy, that time in a woman’s life when her body undergoes manifold changes. This phase along with the multitude of happiness and joy that the thought of the arrival of the newborn brings, also comes with a lot of questions, apprehension and anxiety. Are these things allowed during pregnancy? Am I overdoing anything? Am I doing it the right way? This phase is a crucial phase that requires the right delivery of information to expecting mothers' personalised guidance as they embark on this beautiful journey. Take a look at our customized package offering 12 months of Pregnancy support to make your pregnancy journey a smooth ride.

Pregnancy and exercise, a not so commonly spoken about duo, its association comes with a lot of queries from expecting mothers around the globe. To see you and your baby healthy and fit, Exercise should indeed be a vital component in your pregnancy journey. When should I start my exercise routine? For how long is it safe? How much is too much? Will it deplete my baby with essential nutrients to compensate for my excessive workout? These are the common queries that trouble a mother during this period of pregnancy concerning exercising the right way.

Here are some of the common misconceptions that women have about pregnancy and exercise that need quick attention. Being aware of these and accordingly incorporating these suggestions in the your routine during pregnancy can go a long way for the health of the mother and the baby. 

Myth number 1: Workouts targeting the abdomen are a “Nah” for Pregnancy Women

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Being strong in your core is essential for being able to do simple tasks like walking steadily, lifting objects, and moving things around. Deriving strength from your core for normal tasks should be focussed upon in your pregnancy workouts. Abdominal muscle workouts help one to strengthen their core and back and maintain good posture and stability. Your pelvic and abdominal muscles must be strong enough to hold and support the growth of a new life in your womb.

These are the common abdominal workouts that are safe to attempt during pregnancy. Forearm and side planks, incline mountain climbers, squats with rotation and knee lifts are the few that can be advised if you are perfectly healthy and are up for it!

Myth number 2: Lifting weights during pregnancy is dangerous 

There have been numerous studies done that prove that lifting weights does no harm and is indeed beneficial by offering protection against heart attacks, strokes and osteoporosis. The benefits of weightlifting hold even for pregnant women. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, it helps decrease the likelihood of heart attacks by 40-70%. Light to moderate weights can be lifted around 3-4 times a day. So women who don't come under high-risk pregnancy cases and those who are motivated enough can go ahead and lift that dumbbell! 

Myth 3: Only expectant mothers who usually worked out should continue doing so

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It's never too late to start. Even beginner mothers can get going and can start strengthening their bodies, one step at a time. It's advisable to start from low to moderate types of workouts for beginners. Any type of body movement does come under working out! If your doctor claims that you are a case of high-risk pregnancy, only then is it not advisable to do so. The benefits of working out during pregnancy include reducing the risk of C-section pregnancy, preterm babies and excessive weight gain. 

However, it is highly important to perform any kind of intense workout in the presence of a personal trainer. It is also advised that there should be someone who will look out for you while you continue to slay and feel the burn!