The benefits of exercising before, during and after pregnancy

• Makes pregnancy easier
• Aids in the control of excessive pregnancy weight gain
• Decreases labour time
• Makes labour easier
• Quicker recovery after giving birth
• Reduces tiredness
• Helps control body fat
• Increases strength to perform daily activities pre/post pregnancy
• Increases fitness to cope with lifestyle changes of a new baby

Pregnancy places extraordinary demands on a woman’s physiology. Pregnant women should consult a doctor prior to initiating an exercise programme to rule out possible complications

Exercise promotes muscle tone, strength and endurance. It can help carry the weight you carry during pregnancy, prepare you for the physical stress of labour and make it easier for you to get back into shape after your baby is born.

During active during your pregnancy can also aid in the reduction of backache, constipation, fatigue and swelling.

Psychological benefits of exercise for pregnancy

• Improve mood
• Increase self image
• Help you sleep more soundly 

Contraindications for Exercising during Pregnancy

• Pregnancy induced hypertension
• Pre-term labour during the prior or current pregnancy
• Persistent second-third trimester bleeding
• Type 1 Diabetes
• Multiple Pregnancy
• Excessive Alcohol intake
• Anaemia
• Pre-term rupture of membrane
• Incontinent cervix
• Intrauterine growth retardation
• History of 2 or more spontaneous abortions
• Smoking
• History of premature labour
• Excessive obesity