Staying physically active during your pregnancy is important for you and your baby’s health. But as the summer months start heating up, exercise may be the last thing you want to do.

At Alpha OB GYN, we specialize in customized prenatal care and pregnancy services to support expectant mothers. Part of the care plan Sowmya Reddy, MD, FACOG, prepares for you includes recommendations for exercises you can do safely in each phase of your pregnancy.

If summer weather is too hot for you to stay with your usual exercise routine, we can recommend less stressful alternatives for your body.

4 summertime strategies for staying active during pregnancy

Exercise during pregnancy offers many benefits for your overall health and your baby’s development. Regular exercise to keep fit can also make labor and delivery easier on your body.

When the heat limits your ability to engage in high-impact activities, consider these four alternatives:

1. Swimming

Swimming laps in a pool is a great way to stay cool and get your heart pumping. If you’re just starting, do as many laps as you can. Try to increase the number of laps you can do each day to increase your overall fitness.

Be sure to drink plenty of water, especially in an outdoor pool. Also, apply a high-quality sunscreen to all sun-exposed parts of your skin.

2. Water aerobics

Try working out in a pool if the heat makes you feel ill during aerobic exercise. The water keeps you buoyant, so you can get a full-body workout without compromising your joints and muscles.

When you don’t have access to organized water aerobic classes, make up a routine that includes stretches, light jogging, and movements that increase your heart rate.

3. Prenatal yoga

Yoga is a great way to keep your body balanced and your muscles strong. Look for prenatal yoga classes in your area that consider your pregnancy needs.

If you can’t make it to an organized class, find prenatal yoga videos you can do at home on your own or with family and friends.

4. Neighborhood walks

In the cooler evening hours, consider taking a walk around the neighborhood. Walk at a comfortable pace and stop for frequent water breaks, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

You should also skip the flip-flops and wear sturdy, supportive shoes to prevent discomfort and unexpected injuries.

More tips for exercising safely in the summer

Before starting any new exercise routine, discuss it with Dr. Reddy and our team. We can ensure the activities are a good fit for you and your baby based on your overall health and the stage of your pregnancy.

It’s also essential that you don’t push yourself too hard. As your baby continues to grow, certain activities may become more difficult to do. You may find you get short of breath or dizzy with even simple movements as you near the end of your pregnancy.

Listen to your body at all times. If you have any concerns about your ability to exercise, speak with our team right away.

Call the Alpha OB GYN office in Cumming or Alpharetta, Georgia, to schedule a prenatal consultation or book an appointment online today.