Is it safe to do light workouts during pregnancy when I didn't work out prior to becoming pregnant?

rice0308

Up until my early 20's I was an active person. I haven't worked out consistently in awhile, however, I eat fairly healthy and have no issues working out. I'm just bad at keeping at it. I'm in my second trimester and would like to do some basic light workouts. I began yoga, but I would like to do some arm curls and a few exercises for my arms and legs. Is this an option? I'm not trying to get lean, rather, I'm just trying to lean. 

star8627

Try a water fitness class, which are usually very safe for pregnant participants. Also, make sure to tell your instructor that you are expecting so that they can make sure to modify movement for you as needed.

ChristyM87

Yoga is great during pregnancy. There are also other exercises you can do that help prepare you for labor. Anything that is strengthening your thighs or perineum like squatting exercises are good

lesisk

If you like working out at home, I highly recommend Slim & Toned barre workout by Suzanne Bowen. It is perfect for every trimester. Low impact. Helps with flexibility, too.

Linc13

You can do all the workouts that you feel comfortable with... As long as you don't hold your breath throughout reps as known as valsalva manoeuvre, keep your heart rate at about 140bpm when doing cardio, keep hydrated and try not to do exercises that make you lay flat on your back... Obviously you would need to make modifications to specific exercises otherwise it's still safe to weight lift during pregnancy

bmmims

I second the slim and toned by Suzanne Bowen, my friend gave me the dvd that she used while pregnant. It's really a great workout!

thegingeravenger

I'd ask your doctor just in case, but you should be fine as long as you ease into it! If you have a pool, I totally recommend starting swimming!

groovylocks

Yes absolutely it is. My doctor said i could try things i wasn't used to unless i had any pain or shortness of breath. She said to use common sense. Ski jumps, which i've never done before, were obviously a dumb idea. Cross-Country skiing however would be fine (if it were cold enough but just to give an example)

I have actually been keeping my workouts to things that are guaranteed to be safe. Swimming, walking, tai chi (which some masters will tell you to avoid but mine said to keep doing, just for shorter intervals) I'd try yoga but not a fan.