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Founded in 1856, St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is one of the UK’s largest independent charitable hospitals. Our commitment to our patients is in the quality of our care, the range of our services and the quality of our consultants and staff.
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Exercise In Pregnancy
Are you an expectant mother looking to stay active during pregnancy but unsure what is considered safe for you and baby?
At the Physiotherapy Unit based at of The Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth, we have put together a guide to show you the best forms of exercise to undertake to stay active and healthy during pregnancy.
Embarking in exercise during pregnancy is considered safe and has many health benefits. In fact, it’s been shown to have many benefits that will help you through pregnancy such as; helping stamina in labour, reducing the need for a C-section, preventing gestational diabetes, improving blood flow to your baby, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Here are some guidelines for exercising during pregnancy:
Beginners:
It is recommended that women who are new to pregnancy start with gentle exercise such as brisk walking or pilates for 15 minutes, 3 times a week. Gradually start to progress to 30 minutes, 4-7 times a week. Swimming can be a lovely form of exercise through your pregnancy especially as your bump starts to get bigger, as the water takes some of the weight. Don’t take up strenuous activity that you aren’t used to if you are just beginning to exercise.
Non-beginners:
Exercise as you normally have for as long as you feel comfortable. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise at least, 4 times a week. Avoid getting to the point of being totally breathless unless you are very used to that from before your pregnancy. Do what feels good, being aware that you may need to slow down as your pregnancy progresses especially in the 3rd trimester. If it’s uncomfortable, stop. Remember, it’s ok to do strengthening as well as aerobic activity during pregnancy.
Things to be mindful of:
• Keep hydrated and drink plenty of fluids
• Listen to your body and stop doing anything that’s becoming uncomfortable
Things to avoid:
• Exercising in hot conditions
• Lying on your back for prolonged periods while exercising. Keep it to a few minutes at most
• Contact sports after the first trimester
• Scuba diving
• Be extra cautious with sports that have a risk of falling such as horse back riding and skiing
If you have or are experiencing any complications through your pregnancy, then talk to your GP before taking up or continuing exercise.
Pregnancy does not need to be a painful experience. If it is, see a physiotherapist who can give you guidance and help you to have a more comfortable pregnancy.
Make an Appointment
To book an appointment with one of our specialist Physiotherapists or for more information please contact The Physiotherapy Unit by email on [email protected] or call 020 7806 4010.
Flexible appointment times are available.
