As your uterus grow and your abdomen gets larger,
your sense of balance is affected. You may feel
clumsy. This isn't the time for contact sports such
as basketball or sports where you might fall easily
and injure yourself or be struck in the abdomen.
Pregnant women can be involved in exercise throughout
their pregnancy. Exercise and staying active benefits
pregnant women, contrary to traditional beliefs
of yesteryears. Discuss this at your prenatal visit
with your doctor if exercise is safe for you. If
your doctor gives you the OK, engage in activities
that are less intense and limit your time spent
on workouts; listen to your body - it will tell
you when to slow down. Below is the list of activities
and how it will affect you in your second and third
trimester.
• Swimming can be good for you. The support
and buoyancy of the water can be relaxing. If you
swim, swim throughout your pregnancy. If you can't
swim but don't mind exercising in shallow end of
the pool, you can continue this throughout your
term as well. This is an exercise you can start
at any point of your pregnancy so long you don't
overdo it.
• Bicycling is safe if you are comfortable
with it and have safe places to ride. Your balance
will change as your body changes. This can make
getting on and off a bicycle difficult. A fall can
injure you or your baby. A stationary bicycle on
the other hand is preferred; you can use it even
in bad weather. Many doctors advise you to ride
a stationary bike over a normal bike in the last
2-3 months of pregnancy to avoid the danger of a
fall.
• Walking is a desirable exercise during pregnancy.
It can be a good time for your and your partner
to take walks together and talk. Even when the weather
is not right, you can walk indoors in a shopping
mall to get a good workout. Two miles at a good
pace is good enough. As pregnancy advances, you
may need to decrease your speed and distance. Walking
is an exercise you can begin at any time; so long
you don't overdo it.
• Jogging may be permitted during pregnancy
but check with your doctor first; if you have a
high risk pregnancy then jogging is not for you.
Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes with
good cushioning. Allow plenty of time to cool down.
You will probably need to slow down and decrease
your mileage. You can also alternate jogging with
walking. If you notice pain, contractions, bleeding
or other symptoms during or after jogging call your
doctor immediately.
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