Exercising during pregnancy doesn't have to be something to be afraid of. More women are discarding the outdated notions of hiding away for nine months, and are discovering the benefits of gentle, regular exercise while they are expecting.

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynocologists (ACOG) has issued some guidelines for exercising during pregnancy. These, along with common sense, can keep a pregnant woman exercising safely through out her pregnancy.

Tips and guidelines for exercise during pregnancy include:

• Check with your doctor or midwife before beginning a new exercise program and stop exercising if you have vaginal bleeding or ruptured membranes (your water has broken).

• Drink plenty of water so that you will stay well hydrated.

• Make sure you exercise at a level that still allows you to breathe at a moderate pace so you, and your developing baby, will get plenty of oxygen.

• As your pregnancy progesses, take care to avoid sports or activities that put a sudden strain on your joints as the hormone, relaxin, causes joints and ligaments to loosen and become more mobile.

In the book Fit and Healthy Pregnancy, exercise physiologist Michelle Ladd, suggests alternating aerobic exercises with gentle strength training routines. Combine these with warm-up and cool-down stretches, and you will be well on your way to enjoying a healthy pregnancy.

Strength training doesn't have to be as scary as it sounds, or require a gym membership. Many core strengthening exercises can be done with small, free weight dumbbells; power bands and Swiss therapy exercise balls.

Gentle stretches to warm up and cool off the body help increase flexibility, keep muscles loose to prevent muscle tension pain, and prepare your body for labor.

The best aerobic exercises are those that will not put too much strain on pregnant joints. Consider swimming, bicycling and walking as just a couple options.

For more detailed stretching and workout routines take a peek at The Fit and Healthy Pregnancy Guide.

One of the most commonly overlooked area of wellness during pregnancy is what you are eating. Pregnancy weight gain is not what most pregnant women should be focusing on, but rather where the inevitable weight gain is coming from.

You know the saying, "Garbage In, Garbage Out"? That saying is never more important than when it comes to what you are eating during pregnancy.

Folic acid, iron, calcium, protein and other vitamins and minerals are important building blocks for your developing fetus.