Delivering a baby should be considered the equivalent of participating in an Olympic event.
I think we can all agree that participating in the Olympics takes an exceptional level of preparation and training. Then why, aren’t the majority of women training for their labor and delivery?!
The Why
When you think about it from a physiological perspective, exercise is specific training of muscle tissue. Training muscle leads to improved performance and faster recovery. One of the best benefits of exercise during pregnancy includes easier, less laborious vaginal deliveries. Isn’t that the goal of every pregnant mom?
Evidence shows women who exercise regularly throughout pregnancy have a decreased risk of:
- Gestational diabetes
- Pre-eclampsia
- Operative vaginal delivery, C-section
- Decreased postpartum recovery time
Additionally, exercising during pregnancy can improve common symptoms, such as:
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Weight gain
- Loss of sleep
If you weren’t already convinced – exercise during pregnancy also benefits your baby! In fact, a study from 20131 showed babies born to mothers who exercised during pregnancy showed more advanced brain development at one month old when compared with babies of less active mothers.
The How
ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) recommends 30 minutes or more of exercise, at least 3 days per week, at a moderate exercise intensity2. Activities such as brisk walking, stair climbing, swimming laps, and group fitness classes are great ways to move. These activities can often assist in alleviating typical aches and pains!
The Action
At Lone Peak PT, we are specialists in movement assessment and exercise programming specific to your goals. If you’re pregnant and are interested in learning more, we can assist you in a wide variety of areas. Those may include:
- Developing a home exercise program
- Teaching proper body movements/mechanics for avoiding overuse or injury
- Hands-on strategies for you and your partner to utilize during labor
Ready to learn more? Reach out to Lone Peak Physical Therapy and schedule a FREE consult with pelvic health specialist Cheryl Tenpas, DPT, or our specialist Pre-/Postnatal Coach, Kendra Dennis!
You can reach our front desk at 406-548-6266 or email us!
Email: [email protected] and [email protected]
Learn More At Lone Peak Pelvic Health
References:
- Robinson AM, Bucci DJ. Maternal Exercise and Cognitive Functions of the Offspring. Cogn Sci (Hauppauge) 2012; 7(2): 187-205.
- Optimizing postpartum care. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 736. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Obstet Gynecol 2018; 131: e140-50.
