Before we even get into this, you should speak to your obstetrics/gynecologist first to let them know that you are going to start exercising, or that you are continuing to exercise while you are pregnant. The first trimester for every baby is extremely important, and this is the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Make sure when you are exercising that your heart rate does not go above 140 beats per minute and make sure that you do not get to hot while exercising.

An especially recommended exercise would be Kegel Exercises: Pregnant women who perform Kegel exercises frequently often find that they have an easier birth because they strengthened these muscles during their pregnancy. When you have exercised these muscles, when it comes to the birth of your child, you will find that you have developed the ability to control your muscles during your labor and the delivery of your baby. There is also other benefits of toning all of these muscles: it will help you minimize bladder leaks and hemorrhoids, two things that are common to have during and after pregnancy.

Another benefit of these lovely Kegel Exercises would be that you can do them whenever you want, and nobody will know. Anything to get our bladder control back, right ladies?

Swimming is an excellent exercise to do when you are expecting. It is the safest exercise for an expecting woman. It keeps the weight off of your joints and helps them to relax. It also relieves the stress off of your aching back. It is a safe low cardiovascular exercise, you and the baby will love it! You can also go shopping for the perfect maternity swimsuit for you to look great in while you are having fun.

If you want to walk, it is a great way to start exercising. You can make a schedule for yourself, and it is easy to fit into your day. Don’t forget to check with your specialist before doing anything excessive. Always make sure you are comfortable and wear supportive shoes.

Biking is great, you sit on your bike and it supports you. If you have a fear of falling, try a stationary bike, one that does not move anywhere. Keep in mind that as your baby grows, you might have trouble with your balance so be extra careful.

Yoga is a popular choice, especially since it is very calming and relaxing. Most women will go to a special Yoga class, designed for expectant women. You can find those classes in your local gym or even look them up in the phone book. Yoga is a great stress reliever, and it is fabulous on the joints. And you can look great doing yoga too, so go shopping!

Pilates is another great thing to keep in shape while pregnant. There are also specific classes out there for expecting women, so try to do those. We recommend that you avoid lying on your back extensively, and be careful about stretching to much. If you are not sure, take a specially made class. You will enjoy these exercises with other women who are pregnant as well, and who knows, you might even make your own little support group or just meet knew friends.

If you are a runner, don’t panic, you don’t have to stop running. Your body is already used to this, and chances are, your heart rate has already adapted to this. Just check with your doctor, sometimes conditions may apply.

If you would like to continue with your regular routine and you attend a gym, please be aware of how high your heart rate is when doing cardiovascular exercises. It can be quite dangerous if it is too high. Always speak to your doctor if you have any questions.

There are certain exercises that we should avoid when we are expecting. Unfortunately, if you love horseback riding, you do have to stop for the next nine months. It isn’t safe for the baby, all that bouncing around in the saddle. Doctors don’t recommend it. Skiing is another activity that we should not be doing, whether water or downhill. This is because if we fall, we can cause serious damage to our abdomen’s as well as to the baby. Please stay away from any exercise that has a high risk of falling, and if you are not sure, just check with your care provider.

Here are some things to remember when you do exercise:

1. Wear a comfortable bra that is very supportive. This will also help with your back.

2. Wear comfortable clothes.

3. Wear supportive, comfortable, non slip shoes. These are your only feet.

4. Drink lots of fluids and keep your body hydrated.

5. Breathe deeply and consistently.

6. Don’t get your heart rate to high, you don’t want to over exert yourself or have the baby’s heart rate to high.

7. Stretching is very important, but do them sitting or standing, not lying on your back. Ab exercises like crunches or sit ups are not recommended, but there are alternatives. Check with your doctor first.

8. If you suspect that something is not right, and you have symptoms like vaginal bleeding, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness or cramping, please stop what you are doing immediately. If these symptoms continue, or if you are unsure of what is going on, please contact your doctor, or go to emergency.

Enjoy your pregnancy, and enjoy exercising. Just remember to be careful and ask your doctor if you have any questions. This time will go by fast!

About The Author: Anna Snyder is a young mother of 3 who has a growing interest in pregnancy and maternity field. For great nursing and maternity clothes, check out her site My Maternity Clothing to find a great selection, everything you need for pregnancy and beyond.