Stay Active: Maternity

Pregnancy can be tiring. Walking boosts energy and improves endurance. Being active may also help you get a better night's sleep. And it can reduce aches, pains and swelling.

Walking strengthens and stretches muscles. The stronger you become during pregnancy, the better off you may be during labor and delivery, which require stamina and focus. Plus, if you are in the habit of being active before giving birth, you may be more likely to keep up walking postpartum and bounce back to your pre-baby weight more quickly.

Although you can walk throughout pregnancy, your body is changing and there are a few things to look out for. Hormones from pregnancy cause ligaments to relax in joints, making them looser and more susceptible to injury—a reminder not to push yourself too hard. Your center of balance will also shift and put you at risk for falling, so stick to even ground. You are carrying more weight than before pregnancy, therefore your body is working harder and you may tire more quickly. Rest when you need to.

Wear comfortable sneakers that support your ankles and arches. Dress in layers. Weather and hormones may make you hot one minute and cold the next. If temperatures start rising outside, head to an air-conditioned mall or walk on a treadmill at the gym.

Drink lots of water while exercising to prevent overheating and dehydration. And make sure you eat a healthy diet and get the calories you need for pregnancy to help you stay fueled for walking.

Consult with your doctor before wearing compression hosiery or starting a new exercise regimen.