Doctors: Exercise recommended during pregnancy

Dayna Beuthe recently gave birth to child number four.

Even though her life is pretty hectic these days, exercise during her pregnancy was a high priority.

"I feel like pregnancy is a reason to workout, instead of an excuse not to work out," said Dayna.

Working out four times a week, she said, kept her body feeling good.

"When I'm exercising, my body feels stronger. I'm able to carry this baby differently, it makes a world of difference for me," she said.

Associate Vice President of the USF College of Medicine Obstetrics & Gynecology Dr. Catherine Lynch agrees with Dayna.

"A sedentary lifestyle in pregnancy isn't ideal for mom, and isn't ideal for baby," says Dr. Lynch.

Proper exercise can ward off excessive weight gain and the issues that may come with it.

"That puts baby at increased risk for excessive weight gain, for prolonged labor, diabetes, for other complications," explained Dr. Lynch.

She said to start off slow, maybe with just an evening walk after dinner every night, and see how that goes.

She said pregnant women should avoid heavy weights, steps, crunches and any exercises where balance plays a large role.

"You don't want to fall and hit your belly at 36 weeks and potentially have a problem," says Dr. Lynch.

Most importantly, she says, listen to your body. If you start to feel pain or pressure, or if you start to feel contractions, stop what you are doing and see your doctor.

Dayna changed up her routine and goals during pregnancy.

"I'm no longer trying to increase my resistance, or increase my speed or lose weight obviously. The goal of maintaining is still there, like trying to maintain my strength," she explained.