Key points
- Being pregnant doesn’t mean you are sick, so physical activity will be a great ally to staying healthy.
- Before performing any type of physical and/or nutritional conditioning, you should see a specialist.
Dr. José Smeke, an obstetrician-gynecologist at ABC Medical Center, tells us about the importance of eating a balanced diet and how pregnancy does not preclude the ability to exercise regularly.
- What exercises can I do if I am pregnant?
It is important to be physically active during pregnancy, you can perform cardiovascular exercise such as walking, spinning, or elliptical machine. You can even consider functional exercises or weights with a low or moderate load, depending on your pre-pregnancy habits. - What are the benefits of exercising during pregnancy?
It prevents the onset of gestational diabetes, hypertension, overweight, and obesity. - Are there any exercises that I should avoid?
It is suggested to avoid certain impact exercises such as running, jumping, boxing, and any variation of mixed martial arts that exposes you to punches or kicks. - Can I do the same exercise?
If you are familiar with a sport, you can continue during this stage, just decrease the intensity with which you are used to doing it and forget about high-impact exercises. - Should I change my diet?
It is advisable not to leave out any type of food, eat a balanced diet with good caloric control and have a nutrition consultation at the beginning of pregnancy to broaden your outlook on what you should eat and in what proportions. - Is it true that I should eat more?
This is a myth, pregnant women manage to feel full with a smaller amount of food, therefore, it is suggested to distribute your 3 usual meals into 6 meals. This way, you will eat every 3 or 4 hours.
Whatever activity you choose to stay active during this stage, consider that it is essential to eat before and after physical activity and stay hydrated with any glucose and electrolyte-rich drink.
At ABC Medical Center’s Obstetrics Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
