Pregnancy Brisk Walking: How Is It Beneficial?
Including activities during your pregnancy regime like swimming, jogging, brisk walking, etc., reduces back and pelvic pain, improves fitness, reduces the risk of pregnancy complications, and keeps the weight in control. Out of all the exercises, brisk walking is a moderate and safe one during pregnancy. Experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend 150 minutes.
From the first stage of your pregnancy to the last, you’ll be endlessly benefitted by walking. The benefits are plenty.
Brisk walking improves sleep
Insomnia is common during pregnancy because of hormonal changes, tiredness, swelling, etc. Brisk walking can improve the quality of your sleep and can make you feel fresh.
Brisk walking reduces stress, and anxiety and improves mood
Physical activity transforms the brain chemicals to impact the mood. Brisk walking increases the blood flow to the brain and activates the “feel good” - endorphins and serotonin hormones, thus reducing pregnancy depression and anxiety.
Reduces pregnancy pain
As your belly grows in size, the center of gravity shifts. The change in the center of gravity and weight can impact your movement, standing, sitting, and sleeping. Sleeping in a bad posture, or standing for a long period can trigger pregnancy pain. There are chances of worsening the back pain.
Brisk walking combats constipation
It's common for pregnant women to experience constipation due to hormonal changes and the expanding uterus. The issue can worsen as the pregnancy progresses. Brisk walking can help combat constipation and improve overall digestive health during pregnancy. It's a safe and effective exercise to include in your pregnancy regime.
Brisk walking can keep your weight in control
Putting on weight, due to hormonal changes, diet, and the baby’s growth inside you is natural during pregnancy. Brisk walking regularly can help.
Brisk walking reduces pregnancy complications
Apart from reducing back and pelvic pain, improving fitness, and keeping the weight in control, it can also improve sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, combat constipation, and reduce the risk of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertension.
Brisk walking improves overall health
Whether it is your energy during your pregnancy or better fitness, brisk walking is a reward for your overall health. But, even walking a lot may incur potential risks – strain, pain, and shortness of breath. No matter, how long you walk, always listen to your body.