Walking in pregnancy
Walking is free and one of the best exercises for cardiovascular health (gets your heart pumping) and toning your legs and bum. You don't need to go on a big hike, just a short walk to the shops or round your local park is a good place to start.
Best move:
A medium-paced stroll in the park. It sounds so obvious, doesn't it? But going for a stroll in the park, where there's lots of greenery is the best place for a walk because the air is cleaner than, say a neighbourhood street or high street and green scenery is very relaxing, and a chilled out mum makes for a chilled out baby.
You don't need to go for a strenuous walk, go at a medium pace and swing your arms. If you get out of breath, slow down. To give your legs and bum a workout vary your walk by going up/down a hill.
Need to know:
A few simple stretches before you go for a walk is a good idea to make sure that you don't pull any muscles.
Walking is a great exercise to do when you are towards the end of your pregnancy and other forms of exercise are difficult.
Where to next?
See our easy new mums' workout
Tips on how to have an easier labour
How to lose weight and get fit after giving birth
Chat to other mums
By Louise O'Connell
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