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Exercise During Pregnancy

Regular, gentle exercise during pregnancy will help you feel good. It will give you energy, and help you gain the right amount of weight for your body. Talk to doctor about exercising during your pregnancy.

Exercise helps you feel good by:

• Reducing backaches, constipation and bloating
• Lifting your spirits and improves posture
• Helping build muscle tone and strength
• Promoting better sleep
• Improving ability to cope while in labor
• Making it easier to get back in shape after birth

Forms of exercise that are easy and fun:

• Walking is a great way to exercise during pregnancy because it puts very little stress on your body and you can do it anywhere! Try walking briskly for 20-30 minutes every day or at least 3 times per week.
• Swimming is also great exercise during pregnancy because the water supports your body weight and you build many different muscles. It may be more comfortable for your back than other forms of exercise.
• Exercise classes like prenatal water aerobics or prenatal yoga can also help you feel good as your body grows and changes during pregnancy. Getting together with other pregnant women can also be fun. Your local YMCA can be a good place to find exercise classes for pregnant women.

Financial Assistance

Some YMCA’s offer financial assistance. To find out if you have a YMCA in your area go to www.ymca.net. If you live in the greater Seattle area visit: www.seattleymca.org/page.cfm