by Ann Marie Dwyer

Created on: March 20, 2007   Last Updated: December 21, 2008

Aerobics help during pregnancy. The undeniable benefits are not always explained to pregnant women when they visit the obstetrician because the doctor is more concerned with the welfare of the baby. While proper nutrition and being certain to avoid overdoing any single activity are paramount to carrying a pregnancy to term, the overall benefits of moderate exercise cannot be overlooked.

Five distinct benefits of aerobic exercise for pregnant women emerge as the strongest argument for aerobics during pregnancy. Aerobics are often a way to ease pregnancy symptoms, including cramps and indigestion.

1. Aerobics elevate the heart rate. Increases in heart rate promote better circulation, especially in swollen legs and ankles. The increased blood flow eases cramping in the legs, lower back and lower abdominal muscles. Aerobics can alleviate some late stage pregnancy symptoms.

2. Aerobic exercise requires increasing the amount of oxygen in the blood being delivered to the muscles. Increase in breath rate exercises many muscle groups necessary to deliver the baby. The deep breathing associated with aerobic exercise strengthens the diaphragm and the upper abdominal muscles, the two groups of muscles most effective at the "pushing" stage of delivery.

3. Aerobic exercise helps control weight gain. Excess weight can be dangerous for mother and baby, and promotes gestational diabetes. Controlling weight gain to healthy increases in muscle mass and fluids to maintain the baby are key to losing weight after the birth.

4. Endorphins released during exercise keep spirits high. This helps control mood swings during pregnancy. While controlling weight gain can boost overall satisfaction with pregnancy progress, the brain chemical stimulation provided by exercise greatly increases mood. Aerobic exercise produces more endorphins than anaerobic exercises like yoga.

5. Aerobics are generally a group exercise, and pregnancy aerobics classes are gaining popularity. Interaction with other expectant mothers promotes good mental health. Bonding with other mothers can lead to relationships which are healthy for mother and baby after delivery.

Follow your physician's advice when taking on aerobic exercise during pregnancy. Doctors will give specific instructions about how much and what type of exercise is permissible on a case by case basis. Staying healthy by aerobic exercise during pregnancy is good for both mother and baby.

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