The benefits of this activity are manifold and it helps pregnant women stay active, improve their heart health and get relief from the common discomforts of pregnancy.
However, certain precautions and guidelines must be followed to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that is gentle on joints and muscles. So it is safe for pregnant women. It improves cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and flexibility, but does not put too much stress on the body.
Swimming can ease common discomforts of pregnancy, such as backache, swelling and fatigue. The buoyancy of the water can help support the baby's weight and reduce pressure on the spine, relieving backache.
Swimming also improves blood circulation and helps reduce swelling in the legs and ankles. Swimming makes the muscles flexible and prevents the build-up of lactic acid. It significantly reduces muscle cramps at night.