Safe Prenatal Exercise Options in the Warmer Summer Months

Staying active during your pregnancy plays a key role in healthy, safe labor and delivery. While exercise may be the last thing you want to do during a hot summer day, there are ways to workout comfortably while pregnant.

The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group provides the highest quality pregnancy and prenatal care for women.

Our highly skilled physicians provide the guidance you need to make the most of each stage of your pregnancy. Here, we cover a few exercises you can do safely this summer as you await the birth of your baby.

Safety first

Low-impact, aerobic exercises are ideal for pregnant women because they get your heart rate up and make it easier to manage your weight. Even engaging in 10-15 minutes of aerobic activity a day can benefit you and your baby’s health.

Please remember that if any of the activities listed below are new to you, be sure to check with your provider first, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy.

If you’re not sure how to stay active throughout your pregnancy, our team can recommend specific activities that are a good fit for your body and your unique pregnancy needs.

4 prenatal exercises to add to your routine

Many exercises can get your heart pumping without taxing your energy. Here are four prenatal activities to consider during the warmer months of summer:

1. Take a walk

Walking is a safe exercise during pregnancy, builds muscle and joint strength, and requires no special equipment. Pregnant women who walk regularly can prevent pelvic and back pain, reduce episodes of constipation, and prepare their bodies for labor and delivery.

During the summer, try walking early in the morning as the sun is rising or after sunset when the air is cooler. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

2. Find a pool

Working out in a pool of cool water is a great way to exercise when the outdoor temperatures are high. Exercising in water is very gentle on your body and still helps to build muscle strength, increases your heart rate, and supports a healthy weight.

Find a community pool that offers pregnancy-safe water aerobics or borrow a friend’s pool to swim a few laps.

3. Join a prenatal yoga class

Yoga supports whole-body health and relaxation. A regular yoga practice can also boost your sense of overall wellness, improve your sleep quality, and prepare your body for childbirth.

Look for indoor prenatal yoga classes in your neighborhood or follow along during an online class in the comfort of your home’s air conditioning.

4. Modified strength training

When sitting at home in the air conditioning, try a few rounds of strength training to keep your muscles toned and strong.

You can use light weights or resistance bands to target the muscles in your arms and legs. Make sure to move slowly and regulate your breathing as you move through each exercise. Also, keep water on hand to stay hydrated.

With offices across New York and New Jersey, call The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group office near you today to learn more about safe prenatal exercises for the summer or book a consultation online.