Tips for exercising during pregnancy
Almost any form of exercise is safe when done with caution, even during pregnancy.
It is unwise to start a new strenuous exercise routine during pregnancy. The sports and exercises you can do depend on your own health and, to some extent, on how active you were before you became pregnant.
Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
Avoid spurts of heavy exercise followed by long period of no activity.
Avoid exercise that requires lying on your back after your third month of pregnancy.
Avoid brisk exercise in hot, humid weather or when you are sick with a fever.
If something doesn’t feel right while exercising, don’t do it.
Avoid jerky, bouncy or high-impact motions. Low-impact exercise is best.
Wear a bra that fits well and gives lots of support to help protect your breasts.
Wear the proper shoes for the activity to be sure your feet are well cushioned and to give your body good support.
Avoid deep knee bends, full sit-ups, double leg raises and straight-leg toe touches.
Don’t exhaust yourself.
Drink water often to be sure your body gets enough fluid.
Stop exercising and consult your doctor if you experience pain, vaginal bleeding, dizziness or feeling faint, shortness of breath, irregular or rapid heartbeat, difficulty walking, pain in your back or pubic area, or uterine contractions.
