Exercises to Avoid when you're Pregnant

Your pregnancy is one of the most exciting times in your life. And you’ll want to stay as healthy as possible for yourself and your baby. In addition to maintaining a nutrient-dense diet, staying active while pregnant is also very vital.

But is it safe to exercise throughout your pregnancy? What should your workouts look like? Are there specific exercises you should avoid? Let’s find out!

Most exercises are safe during a normal pregnancy, as long as you take certain precautions. (An exception to this is cases where you are advised by your doctor not to exercise due to certain pregnancy complications) However, to protect your health and to eliminate unnecessary risks to your developing baby, certain activities are not advised. Here’s a list of activities that you should try to avoid during pregnancy.

1. Any high impact exercise that could potentially hurt you
2. Planksor push-ups
3. Any movements or exercise that places lot of pressure on your pelvic floor
4. Traditional sit-ups and crunches
5. Exercises where you hold your breath
6. Exercising in hot, humid weather
7. Sports where there is a greater risk of falling (water skiing, snow skiing, riding motor bikes, horse riding)
8. Pregnancy Exercises that require lying on your back for long periods of time (especially in the second half of your pregnancy)
9. Exercises that require lying on your right side for long periods of time
10. Exercises that require sudden twisting movements when standing
11. Exercises that require intense bursts of movement followed by long periods of no activity.

Since the body undergoes several physical changes during pregnancy, it is necessary to choose activities that are in sync with these changes. One simple rule to follow: You must feel comfortable while doing any exercise. If you experience fatigue, dizziness, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, pack in back or pelvis, it is advisable to immediately stop and rest.

Always talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

We’d love to learn what exercises worked for you during your pregnancy. Drop us a comment below!