Whether you’re an avid runner or a passionate yogi, you shouldn’t tone down your workout just because you’re pregnant. A new report, which was compiled by researchers at the University of South Carolina, took note of how often women exercised before and during pregnancy and their preferred way to sweat it out before comparing the data to how much weight each mama gained during her pregnancy.
So, here’s the deal: 46 percent of women exceeded the recommended amount of gestational weight gain based on their pre-baby BMIs. 31.9 percent of women reported working out at least three times per week while pregnant, and these were the women who avoided gaining too much gestational weight. 32.7 percent of the active mamas met the recommended amount of weight gain, and had a way lower chance of packing on “excessive” pounds. The women who kept up their pre-pregnancy exercise routines and maintained a healthy body weight during their pregnancy had a higher chance of delivering healthy babies!
Working out during your pregnancy is a definite “yes” in our book. Maybe you’re “eating for two,” but you’re also working out for two — so go pump some iron! Just make sure to avoid contact sports, or any activity where you could get hit with a ball (like soccer or softball). Also, scuba diving is a big no-no during pregnancy, as it puts baby at risk for decompression sickness or even death. If you were already a runner before getting pregnant, or have been doing yoga since before it was even a craze, then keep doing what your body is used to doing.
The study concluded that, basically, you don’t need to tame down your workouts while pregnant. Don’t be afraid to keep your gym sessions frequent and just as intense as they’ve always been (unless you play contact football. That one you may want to sit out of for a while).
What’s your favorite way to work out while pregnant?
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
