PREGNANCY FITNESS Being fit can help you stay healthy during pregnancy, it can reduce the likelihood of complications during labor, make labor shorter and allows for a faster post-delivery recovery.

Exercises recommended throughout Pregnancy

The following exercises are recommended throughtout your pregnancy -

1. Walking

One of the best cardiovascular exercises for pregnant women, walking is easy and less strenuous on your knees and ankles. It is safe throughout the nine months of pregnancy and can be scheduled everyday.

2. Jogging / Running 

Go out for a slow jog. Nothing like this to freshen up your souls and body. 

3. Swimming

4. Aqua natal classes

Many women find aqua natal classes enjoyable during pregnancy. Exercising while standing in water is gentle on joints and can help lessen swelling in legs, which is a common symptom in late pregnancy.

5. Yoga and stretches

See our detailed section on Yoga in Pregnancy

6. Pilates

Pilates is a form of exercise which combines flexibility and strength training with body awareness, breathing and relaxation.

The exercises are based on certain movement patterns performed with your tummy and pelvic floor muscles known in Pilates as the "stable core" or base.

These muscles are also known as deep stabilizing muscles. Because Pilates targets the tummy and pelvic floor muscles and these muscles can weaken during pregnancy, Pilates exercises can be useful.

Many Pilates exercises are performed on a "hands and knees" position, and this is an ideal position for pregnancy. It helps to take a lot of stress off your back and pelvis and towards the end of your pregnancy can help to position your baby ready for delivery.

7. Dance

You can get your heart pumping by dancing to your favorite tunes in the comfort and privacy of your living room, but steer clear of dance movements which call for you to leap, jump, or twirl. Remember -- technique is important. Avoid sudden changes of direction. If you sign up for a class, you can lose yourself in music, stay fit, and meet others.

8. Low-impact aerobics

One good thing about an aerobics class is that it's a consistent time slot when you know you'll get some exercise. If you sign up for a class specifically designed for pregnant women, you'll get to enjoy the camaraderie of others just like you, and can feel reassured that each movement has been deemed safe for you and the baby.