Being active before pregnancy can make it easier to stay active during pregnancy. Being active is a good habit to get into. Even a little regular activity can strengthen your heart, body and bones and help keep you at a healthy weight. Having a healthy weight before pregnancy will help you have a healthier pregnancy.
What are the benefits of being active before pregnancy?
How much physical activity do I need to do to see health benefits?
According to the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines, being active for at least 150 minutes per week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more, can help reduce the risk of:
There are many health benefits to being active before pregnancy
You don’t have to go to the gym to be active
Being active is a fun way to meet new people and is a great way to spend time with your partner or friends. It can set the stage for active family living. Try starting small by working at fitting exercise that is easily attainable into your daily routine, then gradually add more activity into your routine. For example:
Stand instead of sit.
Walk whenever you can – get off the bus early, park the car further away, use the stairs instead of the elevator.
Dance to music – it can liven up housework.
Reduce your screen time and take regular activity breaks if you have to sit for long periods of time.
Choose to walk, cycle or to use another form of active transportation for short trips.
Start with a 10-minute walk and gradually increase the time.
Do the activities you are doing now, more often.
Choose activities that fit with your lifestyle and that you enjoy. The more activities you do with your partner, family or friends, the more fun you can have. Some options could be:
