New research has proven another benefit of exercise during pregnancy: healthy heart function in the new born.
An American study suggested that when pregnant women exercise for at least 30 minutes three times a week, their fetuses had lower heart rates during the final weeks of development and that this improved cardiovascular heart control is maintained until at least one month after birth. The women in the study engaged in exercise activities such as power walking, running, weight lifting and yoga.
Keeping fit and active in pregnancy has a number of health benefits for the mum too.
Women who exercise before conception and maintain an exercise program throughout pregnancy have been shown to have fewer interventions during labour, have a shorter active birth and have less foetal distress. Women also report that they recover from labour easier if they had exercised throughout pregnancy.
Other benefits include fewer physical symptoms of pregnancy (for example nausea, heartburn, leg cramps, constipation, haemorrhoids, and insomnia); an increased self-esteem; improved blood glucose levels; improved circulation; and healthy weight control.
It is important to listen to your body and exercise within your fitness capacity during pregnancy. Read this article to get the 10 top tips to safe exercise in pregnancy.