Many women wonder if exercise during pregnancy is advised and often they forget to ask those questions of their doctor. While this is not meant to take the place of the advice of your physician here are simple common sense guidelines to consider if you want to exercise while pregnant.

1. Do not introduce a new exercise or a different type of exercise during a  normal or high risk pregnancy without discussing this with your physician. For instance, if you have never done a high level cardio program before becoming pregnant, this may not be the best time to begin. Most exercise programs need the benefit of time and working up to those high levels of activity.

2. Walking is safe during pregnancy unless you have been instructed to be on bedrest. Moderation is the key to walking as an appropriate exercise. We women all walk throughout the day and continue to do daily tasks during pregnancy as a matter of necessity but an additional walk of a mile or more as your exercise routine may need the approval of your physician.

3. Weight training and exercising on any gym equipment may need to be adjusted when you  become pregnant. The treadmill is similar to walking but extreme weight lifting may cause stretching and pain. If you are used to this type of work out make sure your doctor is aware and gives the okay to continue.

With any exercise program, if you feel unusual pain, vaginal bleeding, or discharge consult a physician immediately. As your weight increases with pregnancy and your balance changes with the advancing pregnancy adjustments will need to be made for your safety and to prevent falling.

Your health care provider is the best source of information about what exercises are safe and acceptable during this wonderful time. Walking and mild exercise  along with adequate hydration will increase your chances for an easier labor and a healthy delivery so plan on including some exercise activity during your pregnancy.