Pregnancy can be wonderful.
It puts a glow on your cheeks and a sparkle in your eyes.
And because you are now eating for two, pregnancy lets you eat almost anything you might want.
You may not have thought you would get any more exercise than frequent trips to the refrigerator and bathroom, and the labor, of course.
After all, isn't that what pregnancy is all about? Well, you need to stop listening to your grandmother's pregnancy stories, put down the candy, and start working on a fitness plan.
Of course, workouts for women do have to be modified for pregnancy, more on that a little later.
Are Bon-Bons a No-No? Pregnant women used to be encouraged and even persuaded to do as little physical activity as possible, but those days are long in the past.
People might be remembering what it was like to be pregnant 200 years ago; Ma Kettle was probably not able to kick back and relax for nine months.
Instead, she was probably harvesting vegetables the day before she went into labor.
Prenatal fitness may have become more popular as a result of the photographs we all see, showing pregnant celebrities wearing track suits while pulling around yoga mats.
After all, pregnant stars like Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna and Halle Berry all managed to get back down to their glamorous figures somehow.
Maybe there really is a method to their madness.
For some time now, medical research has confirmed the benefits of exercising during pregnancy.
The correct workout routines are very safe for pregnant women, and they help maintain a healthy weight before the arrival of the baby.
Even something as simple as a brisk daily walk can go a long way toward keeping your skin and muscles in good condition during your pregnancy.
Leading an active and healthy lifestyle during pregnancy can help prevent high blood pressure and gestational diabetes, both of which commonly occur in expectant mothers.
Also, your labor might be shorter and you might avoid complications due to your weekly exercise program.
When you already have a fitness regimen in place you will also find it much easier to lose that baby weight.
Fitness Exercise Options During Pregnancy Before you do anything, discuss your fitness options with your physician.
Your obstetrician will probably discuss this subject at some length during your early appointments.
Many veteran mothers, as well as physicians, recommend yoga highly.
Yoga poses are easy no matter what the shape or condition of your body, and they are a type of exercise that is designed to strengthen your muscles and reduce mental stress.
Most fitness centers employ personal trainers that will work individually with members.
Weekly or monthly workout sessions can be scheduled to fit around your life.
Your doctor's office and health insurance provider may be able to recommend some fitness centers, so check with them.
After all, now that you are living for two, it isn't only your health that matters.