For years, pregnancy has been viewed akin to a minor and temporary disability in which women are expected to eat more than usual, rest more than usual and then work to regain their body after the ordeal is over. Medical research today suggests this approach may be less than ideal for both mother and baby.
Childbirth is one of life’s most taxing and physically strenuous undertakings, yet unlike a marathon, most women don’t prepare for it physically at all. Perhaps it would be beneficial to begin viewing pregnancy and childbirth as an event to train for, just as one would prepare for an epic physical challenge.
The body undergoes many changes during pregnancy, so it is not recommended to begin a strenuous exercise regimen while pregnant, but many sources say continuing physical activity well into pregnancy is beneficial for mom and baby.
According to Sports Medicine Australia, “pregnancy is a natural condition rather than an illness and unless you have complications, it should be possible to enjoy your sport or activity at some level throughout most of your pregnancy.” While weightlifting small cars might not be in your future for the next nine months, moderate exercise is advised. Why not train for childbirth? Target the muscle groups most important and tone them, watch what you eat for nutrition and don’t overindulge…too much.
Pregnancy Birth and Beyond provides resources for pregnant women trying to understand how much exercise is appropriate. Remember to pay attention to your body and don’t overdo any exercise and talk to your doctor. Check with your family health insurance provider to see if they offer any incentives for maintaining a fit pregnancy. Doctors recommend an average of 30 minutes of exercise per day for pregnant women, as well as awareness of your changing body.
According to studies at Tamworth Base Hospital in New South Wales, “obesity in women of reproductive age is increasing at an unprecedented rate in western societies.” Obesity is one of several risk factors that may be present in physically unfit mothers.
Diet and exercise are of paramount importance during a pregnancy and the importance of balance in these areas cannot be overstated. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, weight gain for a woman beginning pregnancy at a normal BMI should be between 1.8 and 2.1 stone throughout the entire course of a pregnancy.
It may not seem very important to maintain proper fitness during pregnancy, but this could not be further from the truth. With childhood obesity on a worldwide rise, emphasizing nutrition and exercise could not be more paramount.
Health and fitness writer, Rachel Blaine’s research indicates that “being obese before conception or gaining too much weight during pregnancy increases the risks of miscarriage, birth defects, stillbirth, gestational diabetes, cesarean delivery, preeclampsia and obesity in the child later in life.”
With obesity impacting more than 60% of Australians today, nutrition and health could not be more important overall, but especially during pregnancy. Toss out the old notion of eating for two and take on a new perspective of caring for two.
Check with http://www.helpmechoose.com.au/family-health-insurance to see if you have the right level of insurance and bear in mind that every choice you make impacts someone else’s life as well. Setting an exercise routine that is attainable and enjoyable will help encourage you to make it part of your daily life, according to athletic trainers. Don’t set goals that are too large, or you will end up disappointed and frustrated.
Also, make sure to be accountable to yourself or someone else about your eating habits. Seek balance, not perfection. Train for this. It is the most important event of your life! And above all, have fun. Fitness should be enjoyable, say experts. If you like yoga, take classes, take a hike and enjoy the summer sunshine, get outside and see how far your feet take you.
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