When the aunties in the apartments where we stayed came to know about my pregnancy, they kept an eye on me. As it was my first baby and I didn’t have parents around, they wanted to make sure that everything was going right. I was advised to walk so as not to gain more weight by my doctor, as I was already quite plump. In order to keep myself in shape, I kept walking on a faster pace. Once, one of the aunties was watching me. She stopped me and asked me to walk slowly. I was amused but thought that she might be right. However, nowadays, the age-old beliefs of not running during pregnancy are being busted by experts. Running and all kinds of physical exercises are a must during pregnancy.

Before you jump to wear your sports shoes for running, it is advisable to get in touch with your obstetrician to make sure that you’re in good health and your pregnancy is uncomplicated to prevent any problems later on. So here are some benefits of running during pregnancy.

Have a Good Day

Running during pregnancy will help you have a good day. At times, pregnancy makes you feel low. When you run, endorphins are secreted by your brain. This keeps you in good mood and even minimizes the chances of postpartum depression.

Heart of the Baby

Running not only strengthens your cardiovascular system but also that of the baby. It ups your levels of energy. It being a good cardio exercise, running even improves the blood flow in your body and regulates the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the baby.

Keep Your Weight in Check

By running, you get to stay active. This is necessary especially if you have a sedentary job and you plan to work till 3rd trimester. Running keeps your weight in check and also that of the baby. The best part is that it will not affect the normal body weight of the baby.

Physical Problems

Running prevents the chances of gestational diabetes. It prevents problems of lower back pain in expecting mothers. If you are worried about pregnancy problems like nausea and fatigue, then running would help you. It even keeps constipation at bay.

Prevents Labour Problems

Pregnant women who run can minimize the problems generally faced during labour and childbirth. The fitter you are during pregnancy the better is the delivery and postpartum phase. Experts suggest that pregnant runners might even prevent the chances of c-section delivery.

Promotes Sound Sleep

When you exercise and stay active during the day, it will prevent sleep related problems that pregnancy causes in some women. Further, a good sleep will ensure that you wake-up happy and have a great day.

What to Wear and Carry

• Wear the right gear for running –loose-fitting and breathable tees and elastic pants.
• Protect your skin by using sunblock creams and even hats.
• Wear the right shoes that give your ankles support and cushioning.
• Wear a good bra that gives good support and absorbs sweat.
• Stay safe. Carry your phone with you.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Drink sufficient water before running and also while you run and post that.
• Keep yourself in balance as your belly is expanding.
• Choose the right route for running. Avoid uneven trails.
• Do not opt for remote areas for running.
• Do support your belly as is growing. Opt for belly support bands.

When to Avoid Running

• Listen to your body and other cues.
• If running is not possible, take a fast walk, especially during third trimester.
• Never run till you are breathless.
• Do not ignore pain in the joints or ligaments.
• Stop when you start feeling exhausted.
• Do not run if muscles feel sore and weak.
• Check your heartbeats for signs.
• Do not run in case of vaginal bleeding.

Take Care

Women who have a complicated pregnancy should avoid running. In such cases, advice of obstetrician is necessary. Every pregnant woman requires a specialized regimen for exercise. It is not possible to emulate other pregnant women as the body, shape, season, stamina and other things might be different. Do not begin a completely new exercise during pregnancy without asking the doctor. If everything is going well, then happy running to you!