Safety Rules for Exercising During Pregnancy

Staying active during your pregnancy is important. There are many health benefits to exercising while pregnant. Exercise will help strengthen your muscles, something you will desperately need during most deliveries and reduce aches and pains. There are safety rules for exercising during pregnancy to keep in mind.

Body Temperature

Avoid allowing your body to overheat when you are pregnant. Exercising can cause your temperature to rise. You do not want your temperature to go higher than 103 degrees. If your temperature does exceed 103 degrees, it could cause birth defects in your child. Stop exercising immediately if you feel your body starts to overheat.

Heart Rate

Monitor your heart rate while exercising. Pregnant women should not allow their heart rate to exceed 140 beats a minute. The faster your heart beats, your baby does not receive the proper amount of oxygen it needs. It can also cause your body temperature to rise and overheat your body.

Warning Signs

It is crucial to listen to your body when you are pregnant. If you begin to feel dizzy, have vaginal bleeding, rapid heart rate or a shortness of breath while exercising, stop what you are doing. Make sure you get medical help right away.

Exercises to Avoid

Avoid exercises that require you to lay flat on your back, especially after the first trimester. Avoid activities that may cause you to slip and fall such as skiing or water skiing. Avoid doing any of these activities in very hot or cold weather conditions.  Remember you have to keep your health and baby’s in mind when exercising.