Friday, 12th November 2021
Swimming has multiple benefits, making it an ideal choice throughout all three trimesters of your pregnancy. Here are our top five reasons why we think swimming is one of the best exercise choices…
While swimming works out the whole body it’s also low impact. This means there’s less strain and pressure on your joints. It also helps to improve your circulation, tones muscles and gives you more energy.
As well as good exercise, swimming can be relaxing. The feeling of weightlessness in the water can help you relax, especially as your bump grows. It also reduces joint pressure and can sometimes ease swelling too.
If swimming laps isn’t your thing, why not try a pool-based class? From Aqua Tai-Chi to Aqurhythmics, classes add a bit of variety to your routine while giving you all the benefits of a water-based workout.
Regular exercise strengthens your muscles which helps your body deal with the aches and pains of pregnancy. Back pain, swollen feet and aching limbs are all common during the three trimesters, but time in the water can help to reduce discomfort (and sometimes swelling) while building muscle strength at the same time.
You may find during pregnancy, whilst hormones are constantly changing, your mood may be up and down. Exercise is known to boost endorphins and increase serotonin levels, which are the chemicals in your brain that lift your mood and leave you feeling happier.
We hope to see you at one of our pools or aqua classes soon, but before you dig out your swimwear it’s important to make sure you’ve got everything you need before taking a dip.
Things like non-slip swimming footwear is available to make sure you don’t slip when getting in and out of the pool. Plus, if you’re not a regular swimmer, make sure you take it easy and stick to shorter swim sessions at first.
If you’re unsure about exercising during pregnancy or have any questions, make sure to contact your health visitor or midwife for guidance and advice.
