exercise during pregnancy is it safe

Photo by porterjoshua06

Wanna go for a jog?

I am so not an exercise queen. I wish I enjoyed it but I honestly don't. Me at the gym? Probably never gonna happen.

But when I was pregnant, I did feel obligated to at least try and squeeze in a little exercise in my own way (lots of long, brisk walks and chasing around my toddler helped get the job done.)

There are some things pregnant moms need to know about exercise, though, to make sure they're playing it safe. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

First, I know you already know this, but you should exercise. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can help "prevent discomfort, boost your energy level, and improve your overall health." It can even help prepare you for labor and delivery.

Make sure to check with your doctor first, though, to get his approval. And keep in mind that exercise may be off limits if you have any of the following:

A history of preterm labor

High blood pressure

Diabetes

Heart disease

Early contractions or a history of early contractions

Placenta previa (a problem that can cause bleeding before or during pregnancy)

Once you've got the go-ahead, what should you do?

If you exercised before pregnancy, you can probably keep doing what you love and at the same level as before as long as you're feeling well and your doc says it's OK.

If you haven't exercised recently, moms report that walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are all great choices. For more ideas, and to hook up with pregnant moms who want to stay fit, join Pregnancy Fitness.

Remember not to overdo it, mama, and to stay hydrated!

Tell me -- are you exercising while PG? What do you do to keep moving?