The Advantages of Walking During Your Pregnancy

Walking can keep you fit and healthy, no matter your size or shape, and pregnancy is an excellent time to take advantage of the many benefits walking can provide.

For most pregnant women walking is safe for the entire nine months of pregnancy as long as you don't overdo it and your doctor has given you the green light.

If you were relatively inactive prior to your pregnancy, you will want to start slowly, building up to a brisk 20-30 minute walk around the neighborhood. If you were already walking before you became pregnant, then you should have no problems continuing until delivery.

Best Reasons to Walk During Pregnancy

One of the very best reasons to walk during your pregnancy is to boost your flagging energy. Pregnancy can really zap your energy levels, and even though it may feel as though you don't have time to take a daily walk, do your very best to make the time-the benefits are truly invaluable.

When your muscles are strong it takes much less effort to engage in whatever activity you are doing, whether it is grocery shopping or getting through a day of work. Unless you have a medical condition or complication which prohibits your walking daily, this type of exercise can allow you to literally sail through your pregnancy.

Pregnant moms who walk regularly also say they sleep much better, and as most pregnant moms know, finding a comfortable sleeping position can be quite challenging as pregnancy progresses.

Walking works off excess energy, and lulls you into restful sleep. While pregnancy can come with lots of aches and pains, walking can boost your overall circulation and strengthen your important abdominal muscles.

Walking regularly will ensure you are strong and have lots of endurance when it is time for delivery. Women who are in good physical condition when it's time to have their baby find their labor is easier and generally shorter as well.