When you discover that you are pregnant, you start asking questions if there are activities to avoid during pregnancy. Vacation, hobbies and exercise have always been a part of your life, but now you are wondering if you need to change your favorite recreation activities during pregnancy.
Exercise, in general, is good for you and your developing baby. However, there are some activities during pregnancy that you should avoid to ensure your baby’s safety. Before you engage in any physical activity, it is important to visit with your health care provider to discuss your situation and evaluate together what is safe.
Recreational Sports and Pregnancy
Below is a list of activities that may warrant restrictions or other specific recommendations from your health care provider:
Running, Jogging and Pregnancy
Runners who continue exercising during pregnancy tend to gain less weight, have leaner babies and shorter labors. If you are experiencing any pregnancy complications, you will probably be advised to stop jogging. Check with your health care provider for specific recommendations related to running and jogging.
Bicycling, Spinning, and Pregnancy
Cycling or riding a stationary bike is a good source of exercise that increases your heart rate without pounding the pavement. Cycling may become more uncomfortable during the last trimester when your belly has grown and it is a challenge to reach the handlebars. Avoid riding off the road or when the pavement is wet, both of which increase your chance of having an accident.
Weight Lifting and Pregnancy
If you have a history of miscarriage or pregnancy complications, your physician may request that you avoid weight lifting. Check with your health care provider for specific recommendations related to weight lifting. Learn more about lifting during pregnancy.
Skiing and Pregnancy
Both water and snow skiing have high incidents of falls and pose a significant risk of injuries. Both water and snow skiing are not recommended during pregnancy.
Scuba Diving and Pregnancy
Scuba divers must decompress as they return to the surface of the water. Developing babies may have difficulty decompressing. Some studies report a higher incidence of birth defects and preterm birth among women who dive during pregnancy. Scuba diving is not recommended during pregnancy.
Bowling During Pregnancy
If you enjoyed throwing sticks before pregnancy, chances are good you can continue bowling during pregnancy. However, as your pregnancy progresses blowing will become more uncomfortable. As your tummy gets bigger, you will have to rely on the strength of your back to support you. As your center of gravity changes, it may be more difficult to keep your balance, especially when you are carrying a 9 or 10 pound bowling ball and throwing it down an alley. Finally as your joints begin to loosen, bowling will take even more upper body strength to prevent an injury.
High Impact Aerobics and Pregnancy
Aerobic exercise, in general, is healthy for pregnant women and their developing babies. Low impact aerobics with a certified instructor is very beneficial. High impact aerobics is not recommended because of the extensive jumping, hopping and bouncing during the routine. Your center of gravity has shifted which may affect your balance and coordination, making you more susceptible to injury.
You may be asked to avoid aerobic exercise if you have a history of miscarriage or if you have complications with your pregnancy. Check with your health care provider for specific recommendations related to aerobic exercise. Learn more about pregnancy exercise guidelines.
Recreation Sports and Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant are encouraged to avoid activities that may allow direct trauma to the abdomen. Contact sports pose a significant risk of trauma to the abdomen; therefore it is recommended that you avoid contact sports during pregnancy.
Activities During Pregnancy With Risks of Falling
Ice skating, rollerblading, rock climbing, and other activities during pregnancy that have higher risks of falling should be avoided during pregnancy. Check with your health care provider for specific recommendations about a hobby or activity that poses a risk of falling.
Exercise at High Altitudes and Pregnancy
Some studies suggest a connection between living in high altitudes of 8,000 feet or more and pregnancy complications. Exercise at altitudes over 7,500 feet has been identified as unsafe. Although there are certainly women who live at altitudes above 7,500 feet who have been pregnant, exercised and had healthy babies. Check with your health care provider for specific recommendations related to exercising in high altitudes.
Want to Know More?
Compiled using information from the following sources:
Exercising Through Your Pregnancy Clapp III, James F., M.D., Ch. 6, 8, and 10.
Mayo Clinic Guide To A Healthy Pregnancy Harms, Roger W., M.D., et al, Introduction.
WebMD, https://www.webmd.com
