Right about the time you’ve decided you’re ready to get off the couch, now that you can actually get out your door again, and start your exercise routine to get ready for swimsuit weather, you find out you’re pregnant. Don’t worry, though, once you find out your due date, you and your doctor can discuss exercises that you can perform safely.
 
Benefits of Exercising During Pregnancy-Even During the Summer 
 
One of the first things you’ll probably notice about your pregnancy is that you are experiencing a lot of fatigue. When this occurs, you’ll probably think that the last thing that will help is exercise. Surprisingly, just the opposite is true. Pushing yourself (within reason, of course) to move and stay active will actually help you combat pregnancy fatigue, which usually disappears or at least lessens considerably after the first three months. 
 
Once you find out your due date, you will know how far along you’ll be during the hottest part of the summer. If you’re going to be in your third trimester, you may be worried about exercising in the heat. This is when you will want to take advantage of indoor malls, fitness centers, and other places that are climate-controlled. 
 
During your first trimester, if you experience a lot of morning sickness along with fatigue, and it is in the heat of summer, you can also move your exercise routine indoors. This will help you with the nausea while still giving you the opportunity to fight the fatigue. The trick is to plan your exercise routine for when you are feeling your best during the day.
 
Exercise Routines You Can Do During Pregnancy 
 
Again, make sure you check with your doctor before starting any of these. If you feel any discomfort while doing them, stop exercising immediately and rest. If it persists, call your doctor.
 
1. Walking. The best exercise, both before, during, and after pregnancy, is walking. Walking is the easiest exercise on your body as it doesn’t cause undue jarring and can be done practically anywhere.
2. Bicycle riding. You’ll probably be able to do this all the way up to your third trimester (you’ll know about when this is once you find out your due date), as long as your doctor says it’s OK. Just make sure to ride on a level, smooth surface, and wear appropriate safety gear. Keep it slow, too.
3. Low impact aerobics. High –impact aerobics should definitely be avoided during pregnancy. Low impact aerobics are exercises you can do almost throughout your entire pregnancy. The key here, though, is low-impact. Smooth dance moves, with minimal bending or jumping around, will be better for you.
 
If you are participating in a guided exercise program, let your instructor or trainer know as soon as you find out your due date. He or she may be able to adjust your exercise routine so that you can continue exercising as long into your pregnancy as is possible.
 
So why not be active and keep yourself in shape during your pregnancy?