Is it Safe to Exercise in Pregnancy?
Is it Safe to Exercise in Pregnancy?
New mamas often ask me “Is it safe to exercise in Pregnancy?” And the answer to that is that there are numerous benefits to working out when pregnant but exercising may not be for every woman. Some women may have specific conditions or ailments where they are advised not to work out.
ACOG states that if you are healthy and your pregnancy is normal, it is safe to continue or start regular physical activity.
Talk to Your OBGYN
When you meet with your OBGYN you should have a list of questions to ask them. And one question should relate to your ability to exercise when pregnant. If your ob-gyn gives you the OK to exercise, then your next step it to discuss what activities, exercise or workouts you can do safely.
Does Exercising when Pregnant Cause Miscarriage?
ACOG states that if you are healthy and your pregnancy is normal, it is safe to continue or start regular physical activity. It is important to note that they clearly state that exercising when pregnant does not increase your risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, or early delivery.
Are there certain conditions that make exercise during pregnancy unsafe?
ACOG advises that women with the following pregnancy complications should not exercise during pregnancy:
1. Placenta previa after 26 weeks of pregnancy
2. Certain types of heart and lung diseases
3. Preeclampsia or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure
4. Cerclage
5. Being pregnant with twins or triplets (or more) with risk factors for preterm labor
6. Preterm labor during this pregnancy or ruptured membranes
7. Severe anemia
What are some safe exercises I can do during pregnancy?
3. Walking
4. Swimming
5. Stationary bikes
Summary
All pregnant women without complications should be encouraged to participate in modified cardio and strength-conditioning exercises throughout their pregnancy.
Your goal in pregnancy should be to maintain a good fitness level throughout each trimester of your pregnancy without trying to reach peak fitness.
Related:
Can I Do Squats while Pregnant?
Can I Do Crunches when Pregnant?
First Trimester Pregnancy Workouts
Second Trimester Pregnancy Workouts
