EXERCISE WATCH OUTS IN THE FIRST TRIMESTER
We all know that exercise is generally good for all of us, especially throughout pregnancy. However, certain exercises should be approached with caution or avoided during the first trimester to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.
High-Risk Activities: Avoid exercises with a high risk of falling or abdominal trauma, such as horseback riding, skiing, mountain climbing, and gymnastics. These activities carry a significant risk of injury, which can be detrimental during pregnancy.
Contact Sports: Sports that involve physical contact, like soccer, basketball, and football, should be avoided due to the increased risk of injury from collisions.
Exercises Requiring Breath Holding: Activities that involve prolonged breath holding, such as certain weightlifting techniques, can reduce oxygen flow to the fetus and should be avoided.
High-Intensity Workouts: Engaging in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or vigorous exercise routines without prior conditioning can lead to overexertion. It's essential to listen to your body and avoid pushing beyond comfortable limits.
Exercises Involving Twisting Movements: Movements that involve twisting the waist while standing, such as certain dance moves or golf swings, can strain the abdominal muscles and should be modified or avoided.
Hot Yoga or Hot Pilates: Activities performed in high-temperature environments can lead to overheating, which is risky during pregnancy. It's advisable to choose classes in a temperature-controlled setting.
Exercises with a High Risk of Falling: Activities like cycling on wet or uneven terrain, skating, or climbing can increase the risk of falls. Opt for safer alternatives, such as stationary cycling.
Exercises Involving Lying Flat on the Back: After the first trimester, exercises that require lying flat on your back, such as certain abdominal workouts, can decrease blood flow to the uterus and should be avoided.
General Recommendations
Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before starting or continuing any exercise regimen during pregnancy, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure the activities are safe for your specific situation.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's signals. If you experience discomfort, dizziness, or shortness of breath, stop the activity and rest.
Stay Hydrated and Avoid Overheating: Ensure adequate hydration and avoid exercising in hot, humid conditions to prevent overheating.
Sources: Babycenter, Healthline, Postpartum Trainer, Livecorestrong.comThe content presented on Labour the App (whether text, graphics, images, or other material) is provided “as is” and is offered for informational purposes only. The content provided on the App is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider. For more information, please refer to our Medical Disclaimer and to our Terms of Use.