When dealing with infertility due to extra weight, getting your body into healthier shape may improve your chances of conception. However, there are certain steps you should take to reach your goals in a healthy way. Here are some tips to bear mind as you plan a fitness routine.

Do:

Find what fits into your lifestyle.

There isn't a single type of exercise that's best for combating infertility, so any activity is beneficial. The exercise should be vigorous enough to increase your heart rate and be felt throughout the body, but it should also be enjoyable and easily integrated into your routine so you stick with it. Daily brisk walks, jogs, and low-impact cardio are all potential places to start.

Introduce variety.

As your body gets more comfortable with higher activity levels, mix it up with different exercises. Not only will this prevent you from getting bored and easily tired, but it will also help affect more of your body. Consider adding bicycling, swimming, or even dancing into the mix for added variety. Also, core-strengthening exercises like planks and leg raises are ideal for improving back and abdominal muscles, which can help minimize pregnancy- and labor-related pain later.

Don't:

Overdo it.

Avoid high-intensity workouts to prevent overstressing and overheating the body. Overdoing it may do more harm than good, increasing the risk of injury. You should feel your heart rate increasing and break a sweat, but you shouldn't be out of breath and unable to talk afterward. 

Only focus on weight loss.

This isn't the time to focus on dropping pounds; instead, concentrate on building strength and stamina. Avoid fad workouts and diets. Your body needs all the sustenance and support it can get during pregnancy, so the goal should be both well-rounded workouts and a balanced diet. A personal trainer could help you develop a plan that includes safe exercise and nutrition.

To explore other options for increasing your chances of conception, contact the Diamond Institute for Infertility & Menopause. With more than 50 years of experience, they serve the Millburn, NJ, area. They offer several infertility treatments, including in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Call (973) 761-5600 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to browse their services in more detail.