Exercise is Key by Dr. Pettit

Physical activity is anything that gets your body moving.

Adults need at least 2 and 1/2 hours ( 150 min) of moderate -intensity aerobic activity every week.  They also need muscle strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week.

150 minutes sounds like a lot of time.   You can spread your activity out during the week.   The timing is whatever works best for you as long as you’re doing physical activity at moderate or vigorous effort at least 10 minutes at a time.

Examples of moderate intensity activity include fast walking, water aerobics, bike riding.

Fitness aids  ( Fit Bit) are a useful tool for monitoring time and distance.

Exercise in Pregnancy:

Pregnant women without contraindications are encouraged to exercise at moderate intensity.   Thirty minutes or more on most days is recommended.

The safety of any sport during pregnancy is determined by its specific movements.   Sports with high potential for contact should be avoided.

These include activities like horseback riding, downhill skiing.  Scuba diving should also be avoided.

Exercise is as good for the brain as it is for the body.   It is a great non-medicinal way to manage stress.