Do remember that the appropriate level of exercise will depend on how fit you were before becoming pregnant.
Do wear loose, comfortable clothes. Drink plenty of fluids and don’t allow yourself to get overheated as this can be harmful to the baby.
Do take a gentle approach to exercises that put strain on joints and ligaments. During pregnancy women are more vulnerable to joint and ligament injury because the body produces relaxin, a hormone which loosens joints and ligaments in preparation for childbirth.
Do listen to your body. Dizziness and fatigue is not uncommon in the first trimester and some women lose their balance more easily in the second and third trimesters as the baby grows and their centre of gravity shifts. Stop and consult your health care provider if you experience vaginal bleeding, shortness of breath, palpitations or pain in the back or pelvis.
Do avoid contact sports and any activity with a potential for hard falls, such as horse riding.
Don’t exercise in order to lose weight during pregnancy as this may harm your baby.
Don’t exercise flat on your back as this can restrict the flow of blood to the womb.
Don’t use saunas or steam rooms. They can make you too hot, which can be harmful to the baby.