Types of Labor Exercises During Pregnancy
Childbirth and labor rely on the strength of muscles that are not used often. Strengthening these muscles before labor begins may be the best way to prevent over-exertion during childbirth. There are a few exercises you can do to strengthen and tone the muscles you'll be using in labor and childbirth.
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The Butterfly
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The butterfly is a popular exercise for Bradley Method childbirth educators to teach because it involves the participation of a spouse or partner. Sitting up at a 45-degree angle, your partner tries to keep your bent knees together while you use your outer thigh muscles to try and open them up.
Prenatal Yoga
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Prenatal yoga is excellent for strengthening labor and delivery muscles. Be sure that you are using a program designed for pregnant women. Each trimester has different limitations.
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Swimming
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Swimming is the perfect exercise for pregnant women because it allows complete freedom of movement, without the danger of falling down. Some fitness centers offer prenatal water aerobics to strengthen those labor muscles.
Bicycling
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Because of the displacement of body weight during pregnancy, falling down and losing balance may be more likely. Bicycling is considered safe during the first half of pregnancy but, for safety's sake, use a stationary bicycle toward the end to avoid falling or tipping over.
Kegel Exercises
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Arguably the most important exercise for pregnancy, Kegels strengthen the pelvic floor. It is the muscle you use to stop the flow of urine, and you can exercise it by pretending to stop the flow of urine.
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