Exercise during pregnancy is widely regarded as a good thing. According to BabyCenter, exercising while pregnant can give you a good energy boost, make you sleep better, relieve discomfort, reduce stress and even help you prepare for labor. However, sometimes, for the health of you and your baby, it is essential to restrict the amount and the form of your exercise.
History
In 2010, pregnant women are not generally restricted from exercise. But this was not always the case. A generation or two ago, women were often told to avoid getting their heart rate above 140 beats per minute, or were advised to forgo exercising altogether. Now, the medical profession confirms that most forms of exercise and/or a raised heart rate alone does not harm an unborn baby.
Reasons for Restricted Exercises
If some element of pregnancy is not progressing normally, your doctor may tell you to restrict your exercise. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that women who have pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, are experiencing vaginal bleeding or are at risk for preterm labor or premature rupture of membranes will most likely be told to limit their exercise. BabyCenter also notes that women with placenta previa after the 26th week of pregnancy, heart disease, lung disease or who are pregnant with multiples will likely have to restrict exercise.
High-Risk Exercise
Exercises that carry a high risk of falling or impacting the abdomen are usually restricted for most pregnant women. These exercises include downhill skiing, horseback riding, snowboarding and contact sports such as soccer, basketball or hockey. Scuba diving is also considered off-limits for all pregnant women because air bubbles can form in the bloodstream when you are surfacing, which can put you and your baby in serious danger.
Low-Risk Exercise
With your doctor's acquiescence, you can engage in plenty of healthy, low-risk exercises. Swimming and water aerobics are among the top forms of exercise for pregnant women, as they are low impact--meaning they do not tax the joints--and can tone various muscles. Yoga, walking and light strength training are also good forms of exercise for pregnant women.
Warning
If you experience bleeding, cramping, dizziness, chest pains, labor pains or decreased fetal movement while exercising, you should stop immediately. Also, remember that before embarking on any exercise program, be sure to first discuss it with your obstetrician or health care provider.
