Pregnancy Yoga
Pregnancy Yoga
Pregnancy yoga benefits
Pregnancy yoga, as with many pregnancy exercises, may reduce lower back pain1, tiredness2 and weight gain3. For your baby it could result in a healthier heart rate4 and birth weight5. Studies also show that prenatal yoga may even result in less labour pain, a shorter labour6 and a reduced risk of premature labour7. Yet Yoga Coach Clare believes it’s the mental benefits that mums feel the most; yoga gives them the time to come to terms with the many changes pregnancy brings, whilst readying themselves for labour.
Free workouts tailored to your trimester
Stay fit through pregnancy with coach-led workouts
Meet your coach
Clare Maddalena
Clare is a Yoga Teacher, doula, mother and owner of Lushtums – who specialise in pregnancy and postnatal yoga. She has taught over 5,000 women and practised yoga throughout her own pregnancy. Watch the video to find out why Clare is passionate about teaching mums how to get Active for 2 through yoga.
Pregnancy yoga exercises
What you'll need
Yoga requires little equipment – a blanket and cushions will do if you don’t have a mat or blocks. Keeping a water bottle to hand will help you to stay hydrated.
- A yoga mat – use a thick folded towel or blanket if you don’t have one.
- Cushions or pillows – for extra support.
- Loose, comfy clothes – layer up if the room is cold.
Pregnancy yoga routines by trimester
Choose your trimester:
Prenatal Yoga safety
- Always inform your midwife or doctor of your intention to exercise during pregnancy.
- Eat little and often to maintain your energy levels.
- Never hold your breath – remember to breathe deeply and continuously.
- Avoid lying on your back, especially after 16 weeks of pregnancy, as the weight of your bump can restrict blood flow and interrupt oxygen flow.
- Avoid overstretching. The pregnancy hormone relaxin can make you more flexible, so it’s important to protect your joints.
- Avoid inverted postures – those that position your heart higher than your head, such as headstands or the ‘downward dog’. These postures can cause compression of the placenta and interrupt oxygen flow.
- void bending backwards as this can compress the spine further and lead to lower backache.
- Move slowly and smoothly – whether you’re changing position or getting up or down.
- To get up from the floor, roll onto your left side and push yourself up with your right hand.
- Listen to your body. If it feels uncomfortable, either physically or mentally, take a break.
More sports
Last reviewed: 3 June 2020
Reviewed by Nutricia’s Medical and Scientific Affairs Team
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