The journey of pregnancy is truly a remarkable and transformative experience for any woman. It's when your body goes through numerous changes to support the growth and development of a new life. Along with proper nutrition and prenatal care, exercise plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Among the various forms of physical activity, walking stands out as one of the most accessible and beneficial exercises for pregnant women.
Dr Shalini Singh, Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, MBBS MS, Regency Superspeciality Hospital, Lucknow, explains the importance of walking during pregnancy.
The Elsevier Journal of Sport and Health Science reports that there are numerous advantages to walking during pregnancy, especially when compared to other forms of exercise. It promotes the health of the mother and foetus while also being relatively resistant to challenges that are frequently encountered.
Benefits Of Walking During Pregnancy
Dr Singh listed the benefits of walking when pregnant as follows:
Low-impact exercise
Dr Singh said, “Walking is a low-impact exercise that puts minimal stress on your joints and muscles. This makes it a safe and accessible exercise option for most pregnant women, even those who were not very active before pregnancy.”
Cardiovascular health
Walking is an aerobic exercise that helps improve cardiovascular fitness. Regular brisk walking can increase your heart rate and strengthen your heart and lungs, which is beneficial for maintaining overall cardiovascular health during pregnancy.
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Energy boost
As pregnancy progresses, fatigue becomes a common concern for many women. Contrary to what one might think, walking help combat fatigue and increase energy levels. It can help combat these feelings of fatigue by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout your body, providing a natural energy boost.
Mood enhancement
Dr Singh said that exercise, including walking, stimulates the release of endorphins, known as ‘feel-good’ hormones. Regular walking can help improve your mood, reduce stress, and promote a sense of well-being during pregnancy.
Weight management
Walking is a gentle exercise that can help manage weight gain during pregnancy. It burns calories and contributes to maintaining a healthy weight, which is important for both your well-being and the baby's development.
Improved circulation
Dr Singh said, "Pregnancy can sometimes lead to swelling and fluid retention in the legs and feet. Walking promotes blood circulation, which can help reduce swelling and prevent discomfort associated with fluid buildup."
Also Read: Thalassemia In Pregnancy: Expert Explains How to Manage The Condition
Preparation for labour
Walking is a natural way to engage your pelvic muscles and strengthen your lower body, which can be beneficial during labour and delivery. Walking regularly can help improve endurance and flexibility, potentially making the birthing process more manageable.
Bottomline
Dr Singh concluded, "It's important to note that every pregnancy is unique and individual circumstances may affect exercise recommendations. It's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting or modifying any exercise routine to ensure it is safe for you and your baby. They can provide personalised advice based on your specific health and pregnancy factors."
Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided by the expert, however, we advise you to consult your expert for guidance based on your body type and medical history.