Pregnancy and Exercise - Tips and Tricks

Finding the right exercise mix can be incredibly tricky - and let's face it you probably aren't really in the mood to exercise, especially if you're in your first trimester. Those first few weeks - or even months - you feel like doing nothing close to exercise. In fact, getting to and from work, running out to do errands and simply staying awake probably seems like enough exercise for one day.

It goes without saying that exercise (light exercise that is) is an important part of every pregnancy routine. Exercise not only ensures that you are healthy and makes you feel great, but helps you prepare for labor and delivery. So what should that exercise entail? Well, nothing too crazy. You should remain somewhere within your normal pre baby exercise routine. This is not the time to pick up extreme sports. However, if you weren't much for exercise before, then it's definitely the time to integrate some light, daily walking.

So what are your options:

Walking - Is great exercise. It's low impact and you can do it through all three trimesters of pregnancy. Plus a quick trip to the gym on more unpleasant days is also convenient. Spend 30 minutes on the trend mill and catch up the morning or evening news in the process.

Swimming - Is another low impact, high reward exercise option that can be continued well throughout pregnancy. The water is incredibly soothing and a welcomed relief later in pregnancy. Why not try water aerobics? Water is a great way to exercise in way that's supportive of your changing body.

Yoga - There are definitely several benefits to yoga. It's restorative and strengths as well as tones your muscles in the process. Gentle Yoga is typically offered at most yoga studios and is a great alternative if no mommy specific classes are available. Though be sure to inform your yoga instructor (if it's not already obvious that you're expecting) to ensure that the postures are done correctly to ensure maximum benefit and minimum stress.

Are you a runner? Running is also a great form of exercise, which you can do well into pregnancy. Again, this isn't the time to pick up running or try to achieve a marathon, but it's a great way to keep in shape. Remember - to listen to your body. You may not be able to run like you used to. So be sure to slow it down, keep it light and why not mix up your routine. A little run and a little walk. You may find this the better alternative come your third trimester when running could get a bit more challenging with the added weight.

Check in with your local community. You may find that your community offers exercise classes that are specific to the mom-to-be in her various phases of pregnancy. If you're from the Boston area, Isis Maternity has a great assortment of classes - and is location in three convenient Boston area locations. Also, check with your physician's office to see if there have any recommendations.

Additional exercise resources:

Pregnancy and exercise: Baby, let's move! via MayoClinic.com
Pregnancy Fitness and Exercise via About.com

Do you have exercise tips and tricks? Share you suggestions and successes. Join the discussion.