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Expert Q&A

	By Tracy Underwood Child and Adolescent Psychologist Children's Medical Center of Dallas

I am pregnant with my second child and did not "work out" at gym for last three months before conceiving. How much should I exercise to be conservative now that I am pregnant? I am 5'8" and weigh 131 pounds and have no restrictions on my level of exercise when not pregnant."

You should begin as a beginner, and gradually increase your exercises intensity or frequency as needed. Don't be afraid to start slow. You and your baby will get benefit from whatever you do, no matter how minimal it may seem. Start simply by walking on a regular basis. Walking will help with your strength and endurance during labor. If you can find a pre-natal yoga class in your area, that would be helpful also. The yoga will not only give you strength and endurance, but also the slow meditative aspect of yoga will help you get through the rough periods of discomfort, physically, and mentally. Being 6 months pregnant myself, and very active on a regular basis, I have found it helpful to just slow down and go back to the basics. A regular walking program and yoga practice keeps me balanced. Just balance that out with good nutrition and you've got it together! Also, always to remember to listen to your body. Your body will tell you when you've done too much.

April

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