If youโre pregnant, then you already know all the ups and downs, the joys and challenges, and the complexities that come with being pregnant. Depending on how far along you are, you might be wondering if you can do the activities or hobbies you used to love to do. Or you might be worried about whether or not itโs safe to do.ย
The good news is that staying active can still play a part in your routine, and fun outdoor activities can help. If youโre a pregnant mom and sick of your day-to-day routine, then keep reading to see our list of fun activities to do throughout the different stages of your pregnancy.ย
While these activities are considered safe, especially if you were active and healthy pre-pregnancy, itโs always essential to keep your healthcare provider or doctor in the loop and ask any questions you may have on what is safe for you and your little one.ย
Can You Still Exercise?ย
Yes! It is recommended by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans that pregnant women need at least 2.5 hours of moderately intense aerobic activity each week. But that doesnโt mean doing it all at once!ย
Many exercises can be done throughout each trimester, as long as you modify and scale back where needed as your body adapts to pregnancy. That means getting clearance from your doctor, staying hydrated, wearing supporting exercise clothing, and making sure you arenโt becoming overheated.ย
What Are the Benefits of Exercising While Pregnant?
According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), exercise during pregnancy can have a lot of benefits for you, such as:
- Lower incidence of preterm birth and cesarean birthย
- Lower birth weightย
Not only do you and your baby have a safer birth, but you can manage more discomfort such as:
- Reduce lower back discomfort
- Manage symptoms of stress and tension
- Improve postpartum recoveryย
Outdoor Exercise Activities Ideasย
While it may seem surprising, cardiovascular exercises such as walking, swimming, jogging, and stationary cycling are encouraged during all three trimesters.ย
If you are used to doing vigorous exercises before becoming pregnant, ACOG says you can continue these activities during pregnancy with your doctorโs permission.ย
Hiking
Taking a leisurely hike at a slow to moderate pace can be an excellent way for you and a partner, friend, or family member to get some exercise. Make sure you stay hydrated.ย
A great way to do this is to bring along one of our low-sugar electrolyte drinks and take breaks when you need them the most.ย
Swimming or Paddleboarding
Swimming can be an excellent way to get exercise since you can easily do it with low-impact movements. Paddleboarding as well can be another fun exercise for you to do. Make sure wherever you are is calm with little to no waves if you are out by the ocean and take breaks when you need it.ย
For both of these activities, your doctor should be able to guide you. Also, consider going with a friend, partner, or family member to make it an enjoyable activity to do together and take your necessary breaks.ย
Enjoy Some Light Gardeningย
Again, itโs important to be aware of the temperature outside and stay hydrated with the help of our electrolyte drinks by your side. Gardening can also be a leisurely activity and give you some time to yourself while still enjoying the stuff you love.ย ย
Getting Fresh Air
Going outside and getting some fresh air is always a great idea for pregnant moms. It can give you some much-needed โyouโ time and help you unwind. However, sometimes you might want to try going somewhere else to do an activity, or perhaps the weather isnโt cooperating.
Thatโs why Greater Than made sure to include some other exercises that are safe for you to do in case youโre interested in going back to the gym.ย ย
Try a Yoga Class
Make sure to avoid a hot yoga class right now since you want to avoid becoming overheated.ย
Still, a relaxing yoga class, especially one dedicated to pregnant women, can be a relaxing activity. Light weight lifting is also an exercise deemed safe and acceptable for most pregnant women, so make sure to talk to your doctor beforehand.ย
Physical Activity for Trimester One
If you have just recently found out youโre pregnant, you may be feeling a whole range of emotions. You also might be worried about whether or not your regular gym routine is safe for your pregnancy.ย
Chances are, if you are not considered to be a high-risk pregnancy by your OB-GYN, you can most likely resume your regular exercise routine. As recommended, doing 150 minutes of cardiovascular activity and two or three days of strength training are still good for you and your baby.
Keep a lookout for changes in your posture since your body will start to go through physical changes to adapt to your little one. You can also consider doing exercises that can help make your pregnancy easier and prepare you for childbirth.ย
Physical Activity for Trimester Two
Many pregnant women report feeling the best during their pregnancy because of boosted energy or calmness. While this is a good time to work on your workout routine, itโs also essential to know your uterus is getting bigger, so itโs best to be careful.
As long as you are avoiding high-impact exercises such as jumping, running, balance, or exhaustion and being wary of lying on your back for extended periods of time, you should be okay to resume normal workout activities.ย
Again, consult your doctor or healthcare provider for specific assistance for what is best for you and your little one.ย
Physical Activity for Trimester Three
This is when you will notice a slowdown as your body prepares for labor and childbirth.ย
Some activities include:
- Walkingย
- Swimmingย
- Prenatal yogaย
- Pilates
- Pelvic floor exercisesย
Focusing on cardiovascular activities and ensuring your mobility and abdominal strength can help make for an easier delivery.ย
Leisurely Outdoor Activitiesย
While you may be desperate to resume activities outside or want to know what is safe for you and your baby, you may have filled your quota for 2.5 hours of exercise or want to relax.ย
Thatโs why we have some other activities listed for you to enjoy alone, with someone else, or in a group. We want you to have fun, relax, and just enjoy your pregnancy.ย
Watch an Outdoor Movie
If weather permits, going outside to watch a movie can be a great way to have some fun while also relaxing. Even better, snuggle up with a friend or partner, have a drink, and some yum snacks for you and your baby to enjoy.ย ย
Picnic With a Partner, Friend, or Family
Along the same lines of relaxing, having fun, and keeping food as a theme, consider having a picnic. This can be a great way to get fresh air and enjoy natural electrolyte drinks.ย ย
One Drink, Endless Benefits
At Greater Than, our Trial 6-Flavor Variety Pack contains endless benefits for mothers and the entire family! After all, not all hydration drinks are created equal.
Staying active during your pregnancy can provide you with many health benefits and make your delivery easier. Just make sure not to overdo it and ask your doctor about the best kind of exercise for you and your baby.ย
At Greater Than, we know you may be feeling a little overwhelmed or stressed about what kinds of activities you can do. We know wellness and health are essential to you, so thatโs why we want to provide ways you can have fun during any stage of your pregnancy.ย ย
Although you may be feeling a whole array of emotions, we also want you to enjoy your pregnancy and know that you can still do many things you enjoyed before pregnancy. There are plenty of other fun things you can do on your own or with a friend or your partner that can keep you active, safe, and happy.ย
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Sources:
Presidentโs Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition | U.S Department of Health and Human Servicesย