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The importance of exercise when you’re trying to conceive

Re-evaluate your usual habits

Now’s the time to stop drinking, smoking and taking recreational drugs. These habits may damage your future child’s health, and can lead to lifelong physical and emotional problems for you and your child.

Why make an exercise plan now?

Think of all the things that you will have to do when a new little arrival comes along! You’ll be lifting and carrying a constantly growing baby and coping with the day-to-day stresses of motherhood.

Getting in shape at least three months before you conceive may make it easier to maintain an active lifestyle and enjoy the nine months of pregnancy. It will also help you to get through labour. For example, practicing pelvic floor exercises help with contractions.

Aerobic exercise can improve your mood and energy level – not to mention help you to achieve a healthy pre-pregnancy weight. You'll also be less vulnerable to the hormonal shifts that can make pregnant women angry and irritable and send family and friends running for cover.

What should I include in my plan?

You may already be very fit and exercising regularly. However, if your exercise plan is a new endeavour, make sure it’s realistic in relation to the time you have to spare to spend exercising, your current physical abilities, and your existing level of fitness.

Create a plan that works for you and that provides the three important benefits of stamina, strength and flexibility. Great exercises to help get into shape for pregnancy include gentle running and jogging, walking, swimming, cycling and aerobics. Some of these activities are fairly physical and should not be undertaken for the first time while pregnant, so be sure to begin well before you start trying to conceive.