Although you may need to modify your exercise routine slightly during pregnancy, physical activity is safe and, in fact, recommendedwhen you are expecting a baby.
One option you might consider is prenatal yoga. Yoga is suitable even for women who don’t tend to exercise a lot.
Yoga is a ancient practice from India involving movement, meditation and breathing techniques to promote mental and physical well-being. There is a growing number of searches on the benefits of yoga during pregnancy.
Although research shows that prenatal yoga is beneficial and safe, there are only a limited number of studies looking at each benefit, and they have small sample sizes. It would be good to see larger studies on this topic.
That said, if you are pregnant, prenatal yoga is a worthwhile investment you can make for your physical and mental health.
Choose the right class
Finding a class can be confusing because there are several types of yoga. The most pregnancy-friendly forms are Hatha yoga, which is slower, or Iyengar yoga, which uses props for support.
You can find suppliers through a quick search on the Internet or in directories such as mumble UK. You can choose between private lessons and group lessons. In a group class you will have the chance to meet other pregnant women – an added bonus. A private session offers a tailored approach and individual attention from the instructor.
If you are a beginner, it is not recommended to attend virtual classes as there will be no one to check your posture and help you avoid injuries.
If you’re inquiring about a group session, check to see if it’s a co-ed or prenatal-only class. It is always better to choose a prenatal session. Also ask for references from your prenatal yoga instructor. It is a different certification from general yoga.
During your first class, the instructor will ask you questions about any injuries or pregnancy complications so they can make changes if needed. At any time, if you feel dizzy or in pain, stop and tell your instructor. They can support and guide you.
Above all, remember to enjoy the experience. The physical and psychological benefits will follow.
