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Expert Q&A
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| By Catherine Cram, M.S. Postpartum Fitness Expert Exercise Physiologist | ||
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If I am trying to conceive, should I limit the amount of exercise I do? Is running OK to continue while trying to conceive?
Recent studies have shown that for most healthy women, maintaining their normal exercise routine does not impair their fertility. In addition, continuing regular exercise during early pregnancy does not increase the incidence of miscarriage, tubal pregnancy or birth defect.
The best preparation for pregnancy is to build a strong, healthy body through moderate exercise and optimum nutrition. Here are a few guidelines for preconception:
- A well rounded diet rich in vegetables and fruits (good sources of folic acid) and high quality protein and carbohydrates.
- An exercise program that includes cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, warm up and cool down components. Exercise intensity should be limited to a moderate to somewhat high level of exertion -- the activity should feel challenging but not make you feel exhausted and leave you gasping for breath. Any cardiovascular exercise you enjoy (walking, running, biking, skiing, etc.) is fine, just make sure you listen to your body, rest when needed and drink plenty of water.
A good source of additional information is: Exercising Through Your Pregnancy by James F. Clapp, MD
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- If I am trying to conceive, should I limit the amount of exercise I do? Is running OK to continue while trying to conceive?
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