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Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

I work out regularly -- mostly running and weights. Can I stick to my current routine now that I’m pregnant?

Re: I work out regularly -- mostly running and weights. Can I stick to my current routine now that I’m pregnant?

The Bump Expert

Probably, although you should clear it with your OB just to make sure. For most women, exercise during pregnancy is not only safe, it’s highly recommended -- especially if you’ve already been working out. A few basic dos and don’ts:

DO...

Dress comfortably
(If it's easier to move around, injuries are less likely.)

Drink plenty of water
(Hydration is especially important once there's a baby in your belly.)

Warm up and cool down
(Since your heart rate is higher during pregnancy, give yourself extra time to return to your normal resting rate after workouts.)

Stay in tune
(Recognize that your body is changing: Your joints and ligaments are looser, your balance is off, and it’s harder to get up off the floor.

DON’T...

Play contact sports
(Getting tackled should not be on your agenda. Also stay away from ones where you risk dangerous falls such as downhill skiing or horseback riding.)

Exercise on your back
(In your second and third trimesters, avoid lying flat on your back for any length of time -- this position can reduce blood flow to your brain and uterus.)

Overdo it
(Don’t allow yourself to get overtired or overheated.)

Paula Kashtan | April 30 , 2009 2:18 PM

Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

With my first pregnancy I road a bike everyday. As long as your OB says that everything is ok and you can continue to do these things but if you start feeling like its too much (you start to feel weak, your legs and body are aching, or you start feeling dizzy) remember to slow down the workouts and maybe try walking instead of running.

cheleo | October 24 , 2009 9:39 AM

Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

I do pilates once or twice a week and was encouraged by my doctor (nurse practitioner) to continue until I felt uncomfortable doing it anymore. I'm going to ask her the following question, but I wanted to pose it to this group, too: What about canoeing on a very gentle river while pregnant? I would be solidly in my second trimester when doing it. Once again, no white water and probably nothing more than "gentle thrills." Thoughts?

eddswat | March 23 , 2010 12:42 PM

Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

Absolutely fine!! Enjoy canoeing!! The key is to listen to to your body. If something hurts, stop or change position. Otherwise, enjoy your regular activity!

DancinDoulaMomma | July 20 , 2010 9:08 PM

Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

I started Jazzercise about 1 year and a half before getting pregnant. I lost almost 30 pounds and refuse to give it up now. I keep going to class about 3 times a week. However, I do have to modify things where we're flat on our backs. Other than that, I drink even more water and keep an eye on my heart rate.

kimbo1216 | January 04 , 2011 3:17 PM

Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

I just found out I am approximately five weeks pregnant and before I found out I was pregnant I really wanted to get more fit. As much as I hate to admit, I don't do much exercise such as running, and elliptical but would love to get more fit. Would it be bad to start running, lifting weights and doing the elliptical since I have not done it much recently or should I stick with walking and taking hikes?

ctschohl | February 15 , 2011 11:04 AM

Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

I have always heard that you shouldnt start a rigorius exercise routine if your not use to it. Start with smaller things, like walking, simple yoga, the eliptical, swimming, etc. Things that are not to strenuous since your body isnt use to it. ANything is better than nothing and stress your body too much would be worse for you and your baby than good. Take it slow and just be healty! Congrats by the way

evaslechta | April 25 , 2011 11:26 PM

Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

I just found out that I am five weeks pregnant also. My doctor suggested that when I use the elliptical machine not to get my heart rate up to the fat burning stage I usually would but keep it around 120 and just use it as cardio. She said if I really wanted to get it higher then to only have it in the higher range for short periods of time and not very often. She also suggested prenatal yoga classes and lots of walking. Hope this helps. Congrats!

mamaJWolf | May 21 , 2011 6:05 PM

Q&A: Exercise dos and don'ts during pregnancy?

With my first pregnancy my OB suggested that I keep my heartrate below 140. Are you kidding? Just jogging down the office hall and back gets my heartrate near that. I have been teaching aerobics since 2006 and my active HR gets into the 170 range. I taught aerobics all the way until my delivery last time with no complications. I plan to do the same this time. I will not add any intensity, but I will maintain the intensity that I am doing for as long as it is comfortable. Just listen to your body and it will let you know when you are overduing it.

Estrella422 | July 25 , 2011 1:17 PM

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