Is exercise in pregnancy the best thing to do? There are specific reasons, why being fit before and during pregnancy is a good idea. The next nine months will be both taxing physically and emotionally so getting fit will help the new Mum-to-be cope much better with pregnancy, labour, birth and emotions.

Some exercise in pregnancy myths dispelled

In days gone by it was thought that during exercise, blood flow to the uterus was reduced and this put the baby at risk, but now studies have proven this to be untrue, especially in the first half of pregnancy.  Blood flow is directed to the placenta during exercise and the uterine circulation is able to increase the amount of oxygen it extracts from the Mother's blood to compensate for the exercise requirements. Many women have concerns that if they continue to exercise in pregnancy that they can precipitate a miscarriage. In the past it was assumed that strenuous workouts might dislodge the implantation of a young embryo, but the reality is if a pregnancy is at the risk of miscarrying it will happen, even if the mother wraps herself in cotton wool or retires to bed. Take comfort from the fact that in the third world most pregnant women are exposed to more physical exercise in their day to to day lives than the majority of western women and the population explosion continues even when the pregnant women have to undertake hard physical labour.

What form of exercise for pregnancy?

Aerobics such as swimming, brisk walking, cycling makes the heart pump faster than normal so increases stamina. This means that the heart is able to pump more blood around the body more efficiently and work less hard at times of physical stress, Anaerobic activity such as pilates, yoga, working with weights, which is more resistance based can tone muscle and improve flexibility. Any exercise that you have been doing on a regular basis  is safe to continue for the  first three months as long as there is no bleeding, or pain. If you start to feel exhausted then rest, it is your body's way of telling you to slow down. Do NOT rush out and start exercising, find something that you enjoy and can fit into one’s weekly schedule, if you are realistic then you are more likely to succeed, If doing Yoga, choose a class that gears towards antenatal. Yoga is great for the couple to focus on their breathing.

Talk to Naturopath Poppy Osprey

As part of planning and preparing for a healthy pregnancy and childbirth, I provide guidance and advice all the way throughout pregnancy, as well as dealing with anxiety of being a new Mother. I have raised two boys and love children. Come in and talk if you're planning a pregnancy and I can advise on diet, supplementation and exercise gear – a plan specifically for you—and your partner. Poppy has had extensive experience consulting on pregnancy and natural health. Find out more about Poppy here