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True Care Women's Resource Center

It seems summer’s sunshine is not fading. Here we are in November, and forecasters are predicting Casper temperatures to be in the mid to upper 60s for the next several days. We seem to be experiencing a “forever fall” this autumn season!

This should be a great weekend for pregnant women, families, and others to get outdoors and enjoy some long walks. Perhaps a stroll along the river or up on Casper Mountain. And, with the time change (remember to fall back one hour on Saturday night/Sunday morning!), we’ll get an extra hour to spend some extra time in the warmth and sun!

Whether you’re walking, riding a bike, or going fishing, if you’re pregnant, here are five reminders about exercise and pregnancy:

  1. Exercise during pregnancy is beneficial, just as exercise when not pregnant is beneficial. When you’re pregnant, exercise can help keep weight gain in check, reduce a woman’s risk of gestational diabetes, decrease discomfort during pregnancy, and may help ease labor and delivery.
  2. The Center for Disease Control recommends doing 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as brisk walking, several days a week throughout your pregnancy.
  3. Walking, jogging, even swimming can be beneficial to both mom and baby. A recent study of more than 800 mothers showed that “women who burned the most calories through third-trimester exercise gave birth to babies with 41.1 g less fat mass compared to women who exercised the least.”
  4. It’s never too late to move! No matter stage you are in your pregnancy, it’s never too late to get active. Whether you’re in your first, second, or third trimester, exercise is beneficial to you and your unborn.
  5. Remember, though, to stay hydrated, whether you walk or do other types of exercise. Water is important to help regulate your body temperature and for keeping the joints lubricated. It also has other benefits, including helping your unborn baby get the nutrients it needs to be healthy. Plan to drink 12 to 15 glasses of water a day, and more when you’re exercising.

Remember to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise regiment while pregnant. You might also want to visit this Mayo Clinic website: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy-and-exercise/art-20046896.

So, take advantage of the nice weather that’s expected this weekend and spend some time in the beautiful nature that surrounds us.