Is Swimming Safe During Pregnancy?
Swimming is one of the safest exercises you can do at any time and pregnancy is no exception. There are many reasons why you should continue swimming during pregnancy. Some of them are:
- Swimming is a low-impact exercise
- Gives you the effects of a good aerobic workout
- Offers a comprehensive muscle workout
- Improves blood circulation, enhancing oxygen reach throughout the body
- Cools down and refreshes your body
- Curbs fluid retention and swelling
- Helps manage weight gain
One of the biggest benefits of swimming is stress management. Swimming, like all exercises, releases endorphins that reduce the perception of pain and promote a sense of happiness and well-being, thus reducing stress levels.
Swimming During Pregnancy
Swimming is a low-impact exercise with negligible risk of falls. It is not likely that you will sustain any jerky or sudden movements that can damage your muscles or ligaments. If you pay enough attention when you are walking around, and getting in and out of the pool, this could be the safest exercise for you.
Since the water takes the burden of your increased weight, swimming can be relieving and easy to do compared to other exercises. This is especially true during advanced pregnancy. The risk of losing balance while exercising is also minimal here.
Tips for swimming during pregnancy
Any exercise that you do during pregnancy must be done with a little extra attention to ensure you and your baby are perfectly safe. Here are some simple tips to ensure this:
- Always use the poolside handholds while you are climbing in or out of the pool
- Warm up well before you start your laps and give yourself time to cool down after swimming
- Do not exert much. Only do as many laps as comfortable
- Arching your back is not good at this stage
- Backstroke can help if you suffer from back pain during the initial months
- Avoid tight-fitting swim clothes
- Stop immediately if you notice vaginal bleeding and go to your doctor at once
Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for pregnant women. If you are a seasoned swimmer, there is no need to stop once you conceive. Even beginners can continue their swimming lessons but under expert supervision. Seek your doctor’s approval before continuing your swimming sessions. Stay active in the pool and you can stay fit through your pregnancy.