Some women think that being pregnant means they have the opportunity to slack off and pack on the pounds, adopting the whole "I'll lose it after I have the baby" mantra. Nine months without exercise is a long time, and it may not cross your mind now, but you'll be kicking yourself seventy pounds later when you're dragging yourself to the treadmill. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends around thirty minutes or more of moderate exercise daily for expectant mothers. Benefits associated with exercising when pregnant include quicker recuperation after the birth of the baby, maintaining a more positive attitude during pregnancy as well as not gaining as much weight during pregnancy. Exercising when pregnant may sound like a lot of work, but we've got proof that working out when pregnant can actually be a lot of fun.

Don't worry, you don't have to pound the treadmill or work up a huge sweat -- the key to exercising when pregnant is switching it up and finding a set of safe and creative exercises you can do. Some of the best resources that contain the latest pregnancy stretches and workouts are Fit Pregnancy and Pregnancy Magazine. There are an array of prenatal exercise classes that you can participate in with other expectant mothers -- try your local gym or YMCA.

Did you know that Pilates and yoga are also great workouts for pregnant women? Not only will these exercises tighten and tone your body but they will also help prepare you for pregnancy. A weekly regimen will strengthen the muscles you'll use during childbirth and you will also develop useful breathing and visualization techniques. Check out the prenatal yoga DVD Healthy Mom, Happy Baby, for a great at-home workout.

Note to anyone embarking on a new exercise plan: consult a health professional first. There are certain exercises and activities that pregnant women and individuals with specific health histories should avoid. That said, there are many benefits associated with exercising when pregnant, resulting in an easier pregnancy and a healthier mom and baby.