Stay active during pregnancy

Physical activity is another important aspect to optimise your metabolic health.

There are 3 main types of exercises that should be incorporated in your physical activity:

These are some examples of exercises that are safe during preconception and throughout your pregnancy.

Here are some examples of an exercise plan that you can follow. You are advised to do 30 minutes of continuous exercise.

Preconception

Exercising before you get pregnant can help to ensure you are at your best health state before pregnancy and increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Pregnancy

Exercising during pregnancy promotes healthy weight gain, reduces complications related to gestational diabetes and improves mental wellness.

Continue exercising for 30 minutes a day at the appropriate intensity, five to seven times in a week!

Here are some frequently asked questions about pregnancy and exercise.

1. What are the things I need to look out for when exercising?

2. How hard should I exercise when I’m pregnant?

There are 2 ways you can determine how hard you should be exercising:

1) Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE)

2) Heart Rate

3) What exercise precautions should I take when I’m pregnant?

You would need to adjust your exercises according to any issues (e.g. nausea and vomiting) that you are experiencing in your pregnancy.

Postpartum

Exercising post-delivery can help strengthen your core muscles, improve your mood, reduce stress and help you to lose the extra weight that you may have gained during pregnancy.

You may refer to this exercise guideline after your vaginal delivery or Caesarean section.

These are some Do’s and Don’t’s for exercising post-delivery.

Pelvic floor exercises

Ref: J22