What are the advantages of gaining muscle when I'm pregnant?

While now is not the ideal time to shape your body into that of an American Gladiator, it's a fine time to add a little lean muscle mass by doing some resistance exercises with light weights. Muscle speeds your metabolism, which lowers your risk of gaining extra fat and developing diabetes; Just as importantly, muscle itself loves to chew up extra blood sugar - and that will keep those particles from floating around and gunking you up.

Being less active during pregnancy can lead to loss of muscle mass, which underscores the importance of making an extra effort to maintain and add muscle during pregnancy. Another good reason to take up weight training is to prepare yourself for the physical demands that come with carrying, holding, and picking up your baby. Yoga and water aerobics are great ways to burn calories and prepare your body for delivery.