I’m not terribly fit, but would like to start an exercise regime – any advice?
If you are unused to exercise, then moderate activities, such as walking and swimming, would probably be best for you and beneficial for your baby, whereas starting a new competitive sport or vigorous exercise programme would not be ideal Your body is already undergoing huge changes with your heart, lungs, kidneys, and virtually every other major body organ beginning to work much harder. Also, the pregnancy hormones progesterone and relaxin are softening the muscles and ligaments, so soft tissue injuries, back injuries, and abdominal strain become more likely, especially if you haven’t exercised much before. Contact sports, vigorous team sports, and activities like diving and gymnastics carry the further risk of direct injury to your abdomen and uterus – especially as your uterus grows and rises out of your pelvis.
